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 Max Valier Observatory - 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. 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 Ski Arena. 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".

And how to reach the observatory - "Sternwarte Maseben" in German, "Osservatorio astronomico Maseben" in Italian? A shuttle service is offered, and it can also be reached from the valley station in Vallelunga in a 2-hour hike. Always follow the signs to "Maseben", in winter the way back can also be done by sledge. Trained star guides offer star tours on request and in suitable weather.