OBSERVATÓRIO NACIONAL

What a surprising history that of the National Observatory located in the neighborhood of São Cristóvão, in Rio de Janeiro! It was created by D. Pedro, on October 15, 1827 with the purpose of learning and practicing astronomy and geodesy in the region. Among its main objectives are also the geographical study of the Brazilian territory and the teaching of navigation. It is one of the oldest Brazilian institutions related to research, teaching and technology. Its origins probably date back to 1730, when the Jesuits installed an observatory in Morro do Castelo, in the city of Rio de Janeiro. Then in 1780 another observatory replaced it, in the same place, under the impulse of the Portuguese astronomers Sanches d'Orta and Oliveira Barbosa, in charge of carrying out precise astronomical, meteorological and magnetic surveys. From 1808, the observatory's equipment was transferred to the Royal Military Academy. During several decades, what remains of the observatory seems to be left to itself before the Minister of War, Jerome Francisco Coelho, decides in 1845 to reorganize it completely! With the proclamation of the republic in 1889, what was called until then the Imperial Observatory of Rio de Janeiro officially became the National Observatory. It was moved several times until 1920, to the Fortress of Conceição or again to the Morro do Castelo, before being definitively established in its current location! In terms of governance, it first became part of the Ministry of Education and Culture in 1930, a period from which its research and scientific programs developed substantially. And since 1999, it depends on the Ministry of Science and Technology. Today, this observatory seems out of time and out of the city! Preserved if it is by its restricted access, one discovers by visiting it a true scientific campus sheltering some beautiful optical parts (astronomical glasses) and splendid domes. Its visit requires a good dose of diplomacy, and to take there a long time in advance to obtain an authorization. No personnel being authorized, the visit takes place according to the availability of the persons in charge on the spot. At the risk of repetition, it is advisable to go to São Cristóvão by cab or to get off the metro station and take a cab. Check with your hotel to make sure the observatory is open, as opening hours vary greatly.