Capannori Astronomical Observatory (C.A.O.)

The Capannori Astronomical Observatory (C.A.O.) is an observational station located in the hamlet of Vorno, on Monte della Gallonzora, in a panoramic area free from artificial lights that could disturb the view of the sky. The scientific management of the Observatory is entrusted to the Institute for Photometric Research (I.R.F.), which conducts scientific research in the two fields of astronomy and environmental monitoring. In fact, the observatory serves both astronomical and environmental purposes, including the monitoring of atmospheric dust.

The guiding principles behind the management of the C.A.O. are: the freedom of scientific research, the freedom of teaching (both educational and outreach activities) of science, and autonomy with respect for expertise. These principles deliberately conform to Article 33 of the Constitution of the Italian Republic, which states: “Art and science are free and teaching is free.”

Equipment:

The Observatory building consists of a telescope room with a 3.5-meter diameter hemispherical dome and an adjacent control room, as well as a restroom separate from the main structure. Inside, four telescopes are installed:

• A 60 cm aperture Cassegrain reflecting telescope equipped with various auxiliary optoelectronic instruments (photometer, spectrograph, adaptive optics, CCD sensors, photometric filters, etc.), used primarily for nighttime scientific activities as well as educational and outreach purposes;

• A 30 cm aperture catadioptric telescope with similar auxiliary optoelectronic instruments, also used at night for scientific, educational, and outreach activities;

• A 20 cm aperture catadioptric telescope on a portable equatorial mount, used during the day for educational and outreach activities;

• A small solar telescope equipped with an interference filter centered on the hydrogen H-alpha line, used exclusively during the day for educational and outreach purposes.

Usage Policy:

Due to the delicate nature of the equipment and the expertise required for its use, access to the C.A.O. is strictly permitted only in the presence of I.R.F. personnel. The Observatory welcomes individual citizens (for outreach activities), school groups (to support educational activities), professional astronomers (for research), environmental researchers (for research), and amateur astronomers (for research and/or outreach). Animals and smoking are strictly prohibited inside the Observatory.