The only observatory in the western part of South Tyrol offers an impressive view into the starry sky
Image gallery: Astronomical Observatory Maseben
Those interested in stars and astronomy will also find what they are looking for in the Val Venosta valley since July 2019. Until now, South Tyrol's only observatory - the Astronomical Observatory Max Valier - was located in San Valentino in Campo in the Val d'Ega valley, but now there is a second one at the Maseben Mountain Hut in the Vallelunga valley near the Resia Pass. The area is ideal for this, as there is no light pollution in the rustic valley and the sky can be explored undisturbed with the telescope, if the weather conditions allow.
The observatory is located at the Maseben Mountain Hut, called "Atlantis of the mountains", at 2,267 m a.s.l. Until a few years ago, the high plateau had a ski lift and was part of the Ortler Skiarena. However, the ski area was abandoned, as well as the old chairlift that transported hikers in summer. Today, two telescopes offer the opportunity to immerse oneself in the fascinating world of the sun, moon and stars. The project was accompanied by astronomer Norbert Span and financed by the cross-border Interreg project "Terra Raetica under the stars".
Trained star guides offer star tours on request and in suitable weather. And how to reach the observatory? A shuttle service is offered, and it can also be reached from in a 2-hour hike. Always follow the signs to "Maseben", in winter the way back can also be done by sledge.
Contact info
- Maseben Mountain Hut (2,267 m a.s.l.) - 39027 - Vallelunga/Curon / Langtaufers/Graun
- +39 0473 634603
- info@reschenpass.it
Opening times
Despite careful control we cannot guarantee the correctness of the provided data.
Admission
guided star tour to Maseben:
€ 35.00 adults
€ 35.00 young people (15-18 years)
€ 15.00 children (6-14 years)
dinner included
not suitable for children under 6 years
More information
The opening hours correspond to those of the guided star tours with the star guides: The tours are offered in summer on Wednesday evenings and in winter on Thursday evenings in case of suitable weather, the day may change depending on the weather. There are no guided star tours in spring (March resp. April to mid-June) and in autumn (mid-October till Christmas).
Reservation needed till 5 pm of the previous day by calling +39 0473 633101. Meeting point and dinner directly at the Maseben Hut (autonomous hike), group hike to the valley after the tour.
Winter season start 2024/25 after Christmas, summer season start 2025 in mid-June.