Forcarei Astronomical Observatory

The Forcarei Astronomical Observatory (OAF) is a scientific and educational centre of reference in Galicia, managed by the Fundación Ceo, Ciencia e Cultura (FC3). It was inaugurated in 2009 and has the distinction of being the first public astronomical observatory in Galicia, conceived from its beginning with a scientific, educational and outreach vocation. Its activities are oriented toward astronomical research and observation, as well as training and the dissemination of scientific knowledge.

The observatory is located in As Casetas, about three kilometres from the town of Forcarei, on a hill at approximately 670 metres above sea level. This location provides exceptional conditions of darkness and sky clarity, thanks to the scarce presence of urban settlements in the surrounding area and to the natural protection offered by the nearby mountain ranges against light pollution from towns such as Lalín, A Estrada or Santiago de Compostela. These conditions allow for a dark and clear sky, ideal for astronomical observation.

The main OAF building has a circular layout and consists of two levels. On the upper level there is a 5-metre diameter dome, beneath which a high-precision professional telescope is housed, equipped with advanced technology for observing and capturing images of the sky. On the ground floor there is the telescope control centre, from which observations are managed.

The observatory also offers guided visits, which can be arranged through the website of the Fundación Ceo, Ciencia e Cultura, reinforcing its role as a scientific outreach space open to the public. The combination of science, landscape and the night sky makes the Forcarei Astronomical Observatory a unique place to discover the universe from the heart of inland Galicia.