Overview:

Cerro Paranal Observatory – Antofagasta In Chile is a world-leading astronomical observatory located in the Atacama Desert, in the Antofagasta region of Chile. Home to the Very Large Telescope (VLT), it is located 2,635 meters (8,645 ft) above sea level. The observatory is operated by the European Southern Observatory (ESO), and it is one of the most advanced observatories in the world. The observatory consists of four large telescopes: the Antu, Kueyen, Melipal and Yepun; together, they are known as the VLT. The telescope's 8.2 m mirrors allow for observation of the faintest and farthest stars and galaxies in the universe. Cerro Paranal also has a variety of smaller auxiliary telescopes. The observatory is also home to the world’s first laser system, allowing researchers to take very sharp and highly-accurate images of stars and galaxies. In addition to astronomical research, Cerro Paranal is also used for ecotourism, hosting photographers, stargazers and filmmakers that come to take advantage of the clear night skies. This observatory is a great example of how astronomical research and ecotourism can work together in harmony. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Chile
Prominent Features:

• Cerro Paranal Observatory is one of the largest observatories in the world. • It houses the Very Large Telescope (VLT), which consists of four 8.2 meter optical settings. • The observatory also has two auxiliary 1.8 meter telescopes, four 1.0 meter telescopes, and the 2.6 meter Visible and Infrared Survey Telescope for Astronomy (VISTA). • The observatory is located atop the mountain Cerro Paranal, on the western part of Antofagasta, Chile. • It is operated by the European Southern Observatory (ESO). • The observatory offers astronomers an impressive clear and dark night sky and some of the world’s most advanced optical and infrared instruments. • The Cerro Paranal Observatory is also equipped with a unique system of robotic telescopes, allowing astronomers to observe objects in the sky with unprecedented speed and accuracy. This national monument of Chile portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Cerro Paranal Observatory in Antofagasta, Chile, is one of the world's most recognised and celebrated astronomical research facilities. Since its completion in 1999, it has been home to the state-of-the-art Very Large Telescope (VLT) Array, also known as the Paranal Observatory. Archaeological evidence suggests that astronomical observations have taken place from within Antofagasta since before the arrival of Europeans in the region. Prior to the inception of the Paranal Observatory, scientists at the neighboring La Silla Observatory had conducted important astronomical research, and it was their success that served as a foundation for the establishment of the Cerro Paranal Observatory. The European Southern Observatory (ESO) began official construction of the Cerro Paranal Observatory in 1983. In total, the facility took 13 years to complete, and finally opened its doors in 1999. Built to house the world’s most innovative and precise telescopes, the facility quickly became recognized as one of the world’s premier astronomical observatories. Throughout its existence, the Cerro Paranal Observatory has enabled groundbreaking advances in astronomy. In 2003 the facility captured the first direct image of an extrasolar planet, and astronomers have used its powerful telescope array to capture some of the most exquisite images of stars and galaxies ever seen. Apart from its astronomical research, the Cerro Paranal Observatory has also served as a popular destination for eager tourists and aspiring astronomers. The telescope array is often seen featured in film and television, and routinely used by professional astronomers. Its continued successes have cemented Cerro Paranal Observatory's position as a premier astronomical research facility. You must visit one of these historical places in Chile on your Chile tour

Interesting facts:

1. Cerro Paranal Observatory is located in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, one of the driest places on Earth. 2. The observatory boasts four 8.2 metre diameter telescopes as well as two smaller 1.8 metre diameter telescopes and various other instruments. 3. Together, these telescopes are capable of capturing the faintest of galaxies and the most distant of quasars. 4. Cerro Paranal is situated at an altitude of 2,635 metres, giving it access to some of the clearest skies in the world. 5. The observatory is operated by the European Southern Observatory (ESO), which was founded in 1962. 6. Cerro Paranal was selected as the ideal site for the observatory due to its remote and stable position. 7. In recognition of its inspiring and pristine environment, the site has been awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site status. 8. Cerro Paranal has become a popular destination for filmmakers. Most recently, it featured as James Bond’s base of operations in the movie “Spectre”. Visit one of the famous monuments of Chile with your friends and family.