Observatory of the Monges Massif

The observatory is located at 1250 m on the heights of Saint-Geniez in a place preserved from light pollution.
The quality of the sky and the stability of the air are particularly favorable for an astronomical site.
The observatory is intended to house equipment that allows participation in research programs
but also to allow any person or group of people wishing to discover or better understand the Universe to benefit from it,
observe the different types of objects, and/or keep a digital record of what was observed during the evening.
Currently it is equipped
- a C11 Edge HD telescope with optical and digital eyepieces for observing deep-sky objects with contrast and color,
- a telescope dedicated to observing the Sun, the Heliostar Halpha 76/630, to visualize prominences in addition to the spots that testify to its magnetic activity.
- a 100/550 apochromatic refractor telescope more dedicated to wide-field astrophotography

The astronomical activities offered can take several forms:

1 - Day and/or night visit (with or without overnight stay)
During the day :
- Visit to the observatory and presentation of the different instruments
- Observing the sun using two types of instruments to visualize sunspots on the photosphere and
also to observe plasma jets (prominences) in H-alpha light
At night:
- Journey through the night sky: presentation of the constellations of the season and their associated myths
- Observation of the Moon and the planets visible at the time in question, and explanation of the different formations and visible features
- Presentation of the different objects in the Universe and observation of the major types of celestial objects beyond the solar system

2 - Astronomical stays at the Bergerie du Cosmos (next to the Observatoire du Massif des Monges)
Whether you're traveling alone or with family, stays can range from one or more nights in the Mars guest room to one or more weeks in the Jupiter or Saturn cottages. Numerous daytime activities besides astronomy are available in the region and are described on the accommodation pages.
For these stays, a package is offered allowing you to benefit from at least one night of observation under the dome (more on request)
You can bring your own equipment to enjoy the sky and/or to seek advice on using your equipment.
Club stays: the dome can be made available for observations, astrophotography or research missions
(with the presence of the observatory manager).
For stays with astronomy evenings, see the rates mentioned on the accommodation page (Mars Bed and Breakfast 2/3p - Jupiter Cottage 4p - Saturn Cottage 2/3p)

3 - Customized astronomy workshops (Scientific mediator with a degree from the Paris Observatory and the Nice Observatory)
For beginners or those wishing to make better use of their equipment, getting started in astrophotography, or even conducting an exoplanet detection mission. Contact us to tailor the training to your needs.
Special conditions apply to astronomy clubs or groups. A shared kitchen and lounge may be available in addition to accommodation.

Training program: these can be adapted according to the level or composition of the group.
For more information, please call 0673489317 or email reservation@cosmosevasion.com