Observatory

The observatory above Bern

Best view of the galaxy

The observatory originates from Monte Generoso (canton of Ticino) and is a gift from Ferrovia Monte Generoso SA. Sponsored by the Migros Culture Percentage, it was in use on Monte Generoso for over 20 years. Due to a lack of interest, it was dismantled and given a second life on the Gurten.

The observatory on the Gurten offers the general public a detailed insight into physical and other scientific phenomena in space. Public observation evenings take place every Tuesday under the professional guidance of the Astro Events association. The Gurten observatory allows you to gaze into a distant world, far away from the light and noise of the city. Join us on a journey into the universe on Bern's local mountain.

The observatory is financed by the Migros Aare Culture Percentage.

The observatory is open every Tuesday evening.

Summer
April 1 to October 31:	9:45 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Winter
November 1 to March 31:	7 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.
	9 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.

Adults:	CHF 18
Children (6 to 16 years of age):	CHF 10

The number of visitors is limited to 18 people per evening and pre-registration is required.

The observatory is located on the Gurten meadow directly next to the Gurten garden.

Overview map

An observatory tour can also be booked for groups upon request. The tours take place whatever the weather and last from 1 to 3 hours. In the event of bad weather, an alternative programme is held in a seminar room.

Special program for schools (solar observation)

Package price:	CHF 350
Two school classes one after the other: (15 min. break)	CHF 480
Maximum group size:	22
Bookable:	on request, only during the day

The following prices apply for other groups:

Small observatory program

Duration:	approx. 1.5 hours
Participants:	5 to 22 people
Costs:	CHF 620 (from 23 persons on request)
Bookable:	on request, any time with the exception of Tuesday and Sunday evenings

Large observatory program

Duration:	approx. 2.5 hours
Participants:	5 to 100 people
Costs:	Minimum package up to 22 persons CHF 950.- (from 23 persons price on request)
Bookable:	on request, any time with the exception of Tuesday and Sunday evenings
Comments:	Additional telescopes will be set up depending on the size of the group.

Group request

Construction:	custom-made individual construction
Diameter:	61 cm
Construction year:	1996
Country of manufacture:	Italy

Vouchers for the public observation evenings or for the Stärne(Z)nacht offer can be purchased in our online shop.

Order voucher

No, the observatory structure is not wheelchair accessible.

Yes, the observation evenings take place whatever the weather. If it is not possible for a telescope observation session to take place due to the weather, a replacement programme is held in a seminar room located in the main building.

The meeting point is directly at the observatory. In the event of bad weather, a notice is displayed at the entrance to the observatory stating that the replacement programme it to be held in a seminar room.

We recommend that everybody who visits the observatory is aged six and above.

No, the tickets are binding and cannot be returned.

No, tickets can be passed on to others without any issue.

The observation evenings are held in German.