Archenhold Observatory

The Archenhold-Sternwarte, located in the Treptower Park in Berlin, is the oldest and one of the most prestigious astronomical observatories in the city. Founded in 1896, this observatory not only boasts the world’s longest refracting telescope, but also has a rich history of scientific discoveries and astronomical outreach. The idea of creating an observatory in Berlin was born from Friedrich Simon Archenhold, a self-taught passionate astronomer. His vision was to build a giant telescope that could be used for both scientific research and public education. After obtaining the necessary funding and the support of Kaiser Wilhelm II, the observatory was inaugurated during the Berlin Industrial Exhibition in 1896. The 21-meter long refracting telescope, with a 68 cm diameter objective lens, immediately became the main attraction. The telescope, known as the “Himmelskanone” (celestial cannon), is still one of the most impressive scientific instruments in the world today. Thanks to its size, it has allowed for detailed observations of planets, stars, and other celestial bodies, significantly contributing to astronomical research at the time. The length of the telescope not only allows for more light to be gathered, but also improves image resolution, making it a valuable tool for studying the sky. Throughout its long history, the Archenhold-Sternwarte has experienced moments of great scientific significance. A significant example is Albert Einstein’s visit in 1915, when the famous physicist presented his theories on general relativity in a public lecture. This event marked a crucial moment in the history of science and solidified the observatory’s reputation as a center of scientific excellence. In addition to the main telescope, the observatory houses a variety of other astronomical instruments, including reflector and solar telescopes, used for different types of observations and research. These instruments allow for the study not only of our solar system, but also of distant galaxies, nebulae, and other astronomical phenomena. The mission of the Archenhold-Sternwarte is not limited to scientific research; the observatory is also heavily involved in outreach and education. It regularly organizes public events, conferences, guided observations, and educational activities for schools and groups of enthusiasts. This commitment to outreach is essential for bringing the wonders of astronomy to the general public and stimulating interest in the sciences. Over the years, the observatory has undergone various renovations and upgrades to maintain the efficiency of its instruments and improve the visitor experience. The buildings housing the observatory have been renovated to include modern exhibition spaces, where temporary and permanent exhibitions on astronomical and scientific themes are presented. Another fascinating aspect of the Archenhold-Sternwarte is its location in Treptower Park, a green area that offers an ideal setting for astronomical observations away from city lights. The park, with its wide open spaces and lush vegetation, not only provides a peaceful environment for sky observation, but is also a popular spot for walks, picnics, and other recreational activities. The history of the Archenhold-Sternwarte is intertwined with the political and social events of Germany. During World War II, the observatory was damaged by bombings, but was later rebuilt and restored. During the Cold War period, being located in East Berlin, the observatory continued to operate and contribute to scientific research, despite the difficulties of the political context.