The altiplano town of Patacamaya, situated 100km south of La Paz City, is the location for the astronomical observatory. The Observatory of Patacamaya started out as an initiative between the Bolivians and Soviets in September 1973. However, since 1983 the Observatory has been the sole responsibility of the Physics Department - UMSA.
Geographic location:
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Latitude: 17° 15' 57" S
Longitude: 67° 57' 7" W
Altitude: 3789 metres above sea level (asl)
The Observatory at Patacamaya has a Celestron telescope of 40cm diameter, two astro-cameras an AFU-75, and CCD SBIG ST-5 and other equipment for the observation and recording of the night sky.
The astronomical station at Patacamaya enables the observation of astronomical events such as the study and recording of comets including the Halley Comet (1985-1986) and Shoemaker Levy 9 Comet, as well as eclipses and occultations. The observatory provides an important service allowing students, on average 350 each year, to enjoy a night studying the amazing night sky of the Bolivian altiplano.
Frederico Zuazo Street no. 1976, Monoblock Central - UMSA. Phone: (591 - 2) 2441822 Fax: 2441738 Post office box 3164
E-mail: planetar@astro.edu.bo
Visit 1350