COAA - Astronomical Observation Centre in the Algarve

Category: Civil Architecture > Astronomical Observation

District: Faro > Portimão > Mexilhoeira Grande > Poio

Location

The COAA, Astronomical Observation Centre in the Algarve, is located in the Poio area, a quiet part of the Mexilhoeira Grande locality, within the municipality of Portimão. This geographical position was chosen to benefit from an environment with reduced light pollution, essential for clear celestial observation. The location enjoys the atmospheric conditions of the Algarve, known for its predominantly clear skies and large number of sunny days, characteristics that translate into excellent nights for astronomy.

A Centre for Sky Observation

COAA was designed to offer the possibility of exploring the universe through advanced instruments, in one of Europe's brightest spots in terms of observation conditions. This centre is dedicated to providing a unique experience of contact with the cosmos, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of celestial bodies. Its importance is recognized by the assignment of IAU MPC observatory number 965, an international identifier for astronomical observatories.

The Telescope Collection

At the heart of COAA lies a collection of large telescopes, designed to deepen the observation of the night sky. One of the most impressive elements is a 0.5-meter diameter Newtonian telescope, housed in a rotating dome, which allows tracking the movement of celestial bodies with remarkable precision. The centre also has other telescopes, such as a 0.3-meter Newtonian, which together offer a detailed view of nebulae, galaxies, and other astronomical phenomena, revealing the immensity of space.

A Legacy of Discoveries

COAA is not only an observation space but also a place with a remarkable trajectory in the field of research. It was here that a significant discovery for the scientific community took place: the identification of a new asteroid in our solar system, 8225 (1996QC). This achievement underscores the observatory's ability to actively contribute to the advancement of astronomical knowledge. Furthermore, COAA operates a meteor monitoring system, which works in collaboration with other stations to determine the three-dimensional trajectories of these celestial bodies, enriching the understanding of their passage through the Earth's atmosphere.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt