Science · Karachay-Cherkessia
In the Caucasus, looking far beyond Earth
A six-metre mirror and the patient work of collecting distant light.
The Special Astrophysical Observatory’s BTA telescope stands near Mount Pastukhov at about 2,070 metres. Its main mirror measures 6.05 metres across.
The observatory supports research programmes and develops scientific instruments. Image quality depends on atmospheric conditions and the temperatures of the mirror and air inside the dome.
This is a profile of an established research instrument, not a new-launch announcement. Check visitor access directly before planning a trip.
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