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About us

The observatory was founded in 1929 in what was then the relatively barren Slottsskogen, with its heather-covered hills offering clear views towards both Sahlgrenska, Änggårdsbergen, and all the way out to Frölunda and Nya Varvet. As early as 1918, the proposal was submitted to the Slottsskogen board that:

 

"...In a location within Slottsskogen with an unobstructed view to the south, and frequented by pedestrians, such as near the so-called Prippska Villa, an astronomical telescope should be set up on clear, starry nights to show the public how the moon and the starry sky appear at 100 to 300 times magnification."

 

What was built was a wooden cabin without heating, with only a pavilion housing a telescope mount. The roof of the building was on rails so that it could be pulled back in good weather. The guiding were conducted by passionate directors who, together with willing assistants, held these sessions for an appreciative public. The first observatory was managed by various directors, including Otto M. Holmberg (1929–1944) and Björn Hedvall (1964–1986). The latter, Björn Hedvall, together with Claes Göran Carlsson, was the driving force behind the new observatory that stands there today.

It was not until 1985 that the new observatory experienced its "First Light" when it was completed in the form it has today. With the new building, the activities have been even more focused on public education and school teaching. The new facilities have made it possible to hold viewings in all weather conditions. Nowadays, the observatory is run by the nonprofit organization Slottsskogsobservatoriet’s Vänner, with the City Environment Department (City of Gothenburg) as the main authority. The municipal property company Higab owns the building.

Today, the Slottsskogen Observatory is more than just an observatory. Our purpose-built facility includes offices, a workshop, a break room, a lecture hall, and an exhibition area for cloudy evenings.

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