The Specola Solare Ticinese, situated in Locarno Monti, is the oldest astronomical observatory open to the public in the Canton of Ticino. Its roots go back to the mid-20th century, and indeed even earlier: when, around 1850, Rudolf Wolf embarked on an ambitious research project to rigorously reconstruct the newly discovered solar cycle. The result is nearly 180 years of observations carried out using a codified method – an ancient yet still valid approach used throughout the world. In the meantime, there have been two world wars, revolutions, and major cultural and social transformations. But the Sun has been shining for 5 billion years and will continue to illuminate our planet for just as long. The Specola Solare Ticinese does not aspire to continue studying our star until its very end. However, as long as there are people on Earth who are curious about the universe, the Specola hopes to be a place where knowledge of the Sun can continue to grow.
Please note! Specola Solare Ticinese does not deal with weather phenomena.