Observatorio de Sierra Nevada

Observatorio de Sierra Nevada (OSN) is a high mountain observatory at an elevation of 2.885m (9,465ft) above the sea level, located in the region of Andalusia, province of Granada, in Spain. It’s one of the highest roads of Europe.

Observatorio de Sierra Nevada

The observatory is operated by the Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía (IAA-CSIC). The road to the summit is gravel, rocky, tippy and bumpy at times. It is usually impassable from October to June (weather permitting). The high elevation with its risk of altitude sickness, weather concerns, steep road grade and overall inaccessibility make the travel dangerous and difficult. The observatory consists of a main bulding which hosts two Nasmyth optical telescopes of 1.50-m and 0.90-m each, as well as other astronomical and non-astronomical facilities belonging to IAA and other scientific institutions. During the summer months of July and August, the Observatory opens its doors to the public. It’s one of the highest roads of the country.
Pic: Rocío CO

 

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