Nikolaev Astronomical Observatory

Nikolaev Astronomical Observatory is one of the oldest observatories in Eastern Europe. Historical scientific institution included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Today the Observatory is the oldest in the country.

History Observatory

Admiral Alex Greig observatory founded in 1821 as a marine. The building was built June 28, 1829 by the architect Fyodor Vunsha Black Admiralty.

Astronomical Observatory was built in the place that is called Spassky mound. When leveling the ground for the construction of the ruins were found that may remain from the time of Greek colonization of the region.

History Observatory in Nikolaev can be divided into three specific periods:

1. From 1821 to 1904 - operates as a marine observatory. At the time, it provides the Black Sea Fleet information and navigation instruments, taught navigators.
2. From 1904 to 1991 - is managed by the Pulkovo Observatory and is its Southern branch.
3. From 1992 to the present time - the formation of Mykolayiv Astronomical Observatory as an independent scientific institution.

Some outstanding dates:

1. Since 1912 is a separate branch of the Main Astronomical Observatory in Nikolaev.
2. Astronomical Observatory in 1935 among the scientific institutions of the Academy of Sciences of the Soviet Union as Nicholas office.
3. In 2002 he received the status of the research institute.
4. In April 2007, the Observatory has got a number of objects that are listed World Heritage Site.

Architecture Nikolaev Observatory

Territory Observatory covers an area of ​​7.1 hectares and includes:

• architectural monument - the main building of the observatory;
• old and modern astronomical pavilions;
• building economic and scientific purposes;
• Park foundation and cast iron fence.

The main entrance to the observatory decided to organize on the north side of the hill. It led a six-column portico, before which made broad staircase. The central hall is built in the shape of a square whose side is 10 m. The ceiling of the hall rests on 16 columns, forming a circle with a diameter of 8 m.

Above audience architect designed high rotunda with a flat roof, centered on the synchronization of a round hole for observation zenith stars. The complex mechanism consisting of blocks and ropes, made it possible to close this hole wooden gate.

Within the walls of the rotunda readied for the four door openings that are located on the sides of the world, and 12 windows, which allowed to observe celestial bodies in any part of the sky. On the roof towards the west of the rotunda builders put two stone pillars. At this point the young navigators set their instruments to observe stars.

Astronomical Observatory survived to the present day unchanged.

Observatory Museum

In the Round Hall of the main building and two pavilions exposition of the museum observatory. The museum has a unique collection:

• astronomical instruments;
• astronomical clock;
• old books;
• photographs;
• paintings;
• cards.

Pride is ancient astronomers Nicholas meridian circle Repsold built in 1834 in Germany. After the restoration and upgrading it for 40 years were various observational programs.

Getting there

Astronomical Observatory in Nikolaev located on the street Observatorna next to the park named after Shura Kober and Vite Khomenko. Opposite is the school № 22. Nearby is stop "BC" Builders, "through which the routes of the tram routes number 1 and number 43, 52, 79, 86.