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The La Silla Observatory is ESO's first astronomical complex in Chile, inaugurated on March 25, 1969. It is located in the IV Region of Chile, in a privileged place for astronomical observation, with an average of 300 clear nights a year. Its dry and transparent environment, coupled with low atmospheric turbulence, allows astronomers to obtain images with high clarity.



With its telescopes and various instruments, the La Silla Observatory has enabled astronomers from around the world to carry out first-line research in the last four decades. La Silla has continued to incorporate new technologies that allow it to maintain a leadership position in the study of the cosmos.



It is located in the commune of La Higuera, 156 kilometers north of La Serena, and more than 2,400 meters above sea level.





By plane

There are daily frequencies from Santiago de Chile, Iquique, Antofagasta and Copiapó that arrive at the La Florida international air terminal in La Serena. Check the departure times.



By car

From Santiago de Chile you must travel along the north pan-American highway Km. 473 on a completely paved two-way road. From anywhere in the south travel the same route.

If you are traveling from the north, you must continue south on the Pan-American Highway or Route 5 to La Serena.



By bus

There are continuous frequencies from Coquimbo. From Santiago there are several routes during the day that you should consult at the respective end.



Boat

If you wish to arrive by sea, you must travel to the port of Coquimbo, where you must access another type of transportation that will take you through the 12 km. to La Serena. You can hire a taxi.













It has 14 optical mirror telescopes, up to 3.6 meters in diameter, and a 15-meter radio telescope. La Silla's equipment transforms it into one of the largest and most modern international astronomical observation centers.



Each tour lasts three hours and the reservation must be made at least one month in advance, by calling (56) 2-4633280 or at recepstg@eso.org.

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