Construction of new observatory nears completion in Troodos

In Troodos, at an altitude of 1200 m above sea level, the construction of a new observatory continues at pace.

An unusual building is erected on a hill between the villages of Agridia and Chandria.

You can get to the observatory from Limassol and Nicosia in about 45 minutes. The area was chosen because of favorable natural conditions - low humidity, absence of wind and light pollution. Over 200 cloudless Cypriot nights a year will allow astronomers to observe the stars.

The architectural design of the project was developed by Elena Tsolakis in collaboration with her brother Nicodemus. According to their idea, the observatory will look like a spaceship that has landed briefly and is ready to take off at any moment.

It is worth noting that the construction of an unusual facility began in April 2021. Since then, the workers have managed to complete the construction of the main building of the observatory and install a large mirror dome 5.6 m high.

Currently, all efforts are focused on finishing the interior, cladding the facade of the building, creating a retractable roof for the solar telescope and a presentation hall that will work as a planetarium. After finishing all finishing works, two main telescopes, an astronomical 20-inch telescope and a telescope for observing the Sun will be installed in the building.

The project is planned to be delivered by Easter.

In other words, there is hope that the observatory will receive its first visitors in May 2023.

The cost of the project is estimated at 1.6 million euros, of which 800 thousand euros were allocated for the construction of the building, and another 800 thousand euros for equipment and the construction of an access road.

The new observatory is expected to attract scientists, researchers and amateur astronomers from all over the world, and will also become a pole of attraction for all schools in Cyprus. In addition, the construction of the observatory will contribute to the development of the village of Agridia and the entire region of Pitsillia.

As you may remember, another planetarium construction project is currently being implemented in Cyprus, which is being built next to the Church of the Apostle Andrew.