OBSER­VA­TOIRE FRANÇOIS-XAVIER BAGNOUD

The François-Xavier Bagnoud Observatory is one of those new-generation structures that not only offer a simple popularization of astronomy through a few evenings of observation, but goes far beyond that with related and complementary activities. These activities are, in this case, it is true, greatly facilitated by the geographical location of the observatory, in the mountains, at the foot of the slopes, under a quality sky. In addition to observations, there are also planetarium sessions (in the village) and guided hikes on the "Planet Path". During the evenings, the visitor learns to identify himself among the main constellations, discovers observation with the naked eye, then puts the eye to the eyepiece of a large diameter telescope, 610 mm, allowing to see live the tormented atmospheres of the planets, the craters of the Moon, the spiral arms of some galaxies, or to dive into the heart of the most beautiful nebulae. During the day, the observations of the Sun are carried out according to two formulas: "Open doors", the simplest and most free, where the visitor has unannounced access to the observatory when the sky is clear (an animator is then at his disposal), and "Reservation" which is reserved for groups of 5 or more people. For those who want to combine walking and astronomy, the Planet Path is for them... It starts from Tignousa on the heights of Saint-Luc, about a hundred metres from the funicular, below the observatory, where the Sun is materialized by an oval serving as a sundial. The distance to be covered is about 6.5 km, for a height difference of 500 m. The scale of distances is thus 1/1,000,000,000,000,000, which means that one metre of walking actually represents 1 billion metres! This hike takes about 2h30, at a slow pace, including breaks on the way. But at altitude (above 2,000 m), you should avoid going head down: you should check the weather forecast and at least bring a few warm clothes and another jacket for the rain. It should be noted that the Saint-Luc tourist office offers various practical and educational materials concerning this hike, free or more complete brochures.