Hagen Public Observatory

The Arbeitsgemeinschaft Volkssternwarte Hagen e.V. was founded on 9 November 1955 by Albert Schäfer, Paul Engemann and Wilm Langhorst. The focus of the astronomical work is astrophotography, deep sky, comet, planet, sun and moon observation. The photographic monitoring of bright shooting stars and the observation and measurement of minor planets are also part of the work. The collaboration in observing programmes - partly on a worldwide scale - shows that our working group is a recognised institution in its field. With the founding of the observatory, daily weather measurements and records also began. These statistics are still complete today. The weather station has become an important and significant institution for the Hagen area, as we can provide more precise information about local weather conditions than other, supra-regional measuring stations.

Public relations in the field of popular astronomy is our highest priority. All interested citizens are cordially invited to visit. Every year, numerous visitors from near and far come to the observatory at the Eugen Richter Tower to get first-hand information about the starry sky. The buildings, outdoor facilities and some telescopes are self-built. Our work is financed by membership fees, supporting members, star sponsorships and donations. All events are prepared and carried out by our members on a voluntary basis. When the sky is clear and dark, the starry sky and its fascinating objects are observed with the naked eye, binoculars and our telescopes. When the sky is cloudy, we present the current starry sky via computer simulation on a large projection screen in our cosy lecture room. In the summer months we also offer solar observations on Sunday afternoons with special telescopes. Our members will be happy to answer all your questions about the sky and weather. We are looking forward to your visit.