National Astronomical Observatory
Posted on Fri, Dec 30, 2011 @ 02:12 PM
The San Pedro Martir forest is an amazing spot for camping, hiking, rock climbing and many other outdoor activities; it is also internationally recognized for being a multispecies forest and host of the National Astronomic Observatory.
The observatory was initially built in the Chapultepec Castle located in Mexico City back in 1878, but it was until 1967 that it was relocated in the state the Baja California in San Pedro Martir forest. In 1971 the first two telescopes were constructed, one of 1.5m diameter and the second one of 0.84m diameter, in 1979 was inaugurated a new telescope of 2.12m diameter. Nowadays the observatory is equipped with cabins and different areas to welcome the scientists in their research activities. The place maintains an international relevance thanks to the quality of the site and its constant activities made to support the newest techniques of observation even though the telescopes are not as big as many others located in the rest of the world.
If you are interested in visiting this wonderful place where it is easily to observe nature and a beautiful sky, you can fin local companies in Baja California that offer tours to the San Pedro Martir forest which include as part of the activities, a visit to the observatory’s facilities.
Sources
UNAM Online Magazine
National Astronomical Observatory web page