The Yebes Observatory was founded in the 1970s to meet the need to move the National Astronomical Observatory's observation instruments away from Madrid and install them in a relatively nearby location with better conditions. There is no official opening date for the Observatory, as construction took several years between 1973 and 1976, during which time the land was transferred, the perimeter was fenced off, the power lines were installed, the road was built, and the first facilities were constructed. On December 11, 1975, the then Minister of Development visited the facilities for the first time, a date that could be considered the first official event marking the beginning of the Observatory.

Fifty years later, the Yebes Observatory has become an international benchmark in radio astronomy and geodesy, and this success story has been led by its staff, whose dedication, commitment, and enthusiasm have been commendable throughout the years.

Lecture series

Upcoming activities:

• Series of scientific and technical lectures aimed at the general public in Guadalajara.
• Specialized visits and open days for the general public.
• Night observation and astrophotography sessions in collaboration with local amateur astronomy groups.
• Competition aimed at early childhood education centers.
• Publication of an illustrated commemorative book covering the history of the Observatory over the last five decades.
• Scientific and technical conferences on the results obtained with the instruments of the Yebes Observatory.

commemorative video

commemorative book

This book covers the main milestones that have made this center an international benchmark in radio astronomy and geodesy. Through photographs and short texts, you will discover how a project that began in the 1970s has been transformed into a cutting-edge scientific facility. The pages include simple explanations of science and technology that allow readers to understand the extraordinary advances achieved by the team at the Yebes Observatory.

Available formats:

Free digital version (Spanish)

Paper version (Online store)