The Observatory

The University’s Astronomical Observatory from 1833 is one of the oldest buildings built for the University. The architect, Grosch, cooperated closely with the professor of astronomy, Hansteen.  

The building was thoroughly restored to the University of Oslo’s Bicentenary in 2011. MUV was involved in the restauration process and has the antiquarian responsibility for the historical rooms in the building. MUV curates a permanent exhibition in the scientific wing of the Observatory, we curate the astronomy collection and some scientific archive material.

The main activity in the Observatory is teaching activities for school children. The building and exhibition is open to the public on special occasions only

Published June 28, 2019 10:44 AM

Can one professor really be expected to head the Norwegian Geographic Survey, the Meteorological Institute and the Norwegian Metrology and Accreditation Service – in addition to his day job? Norway’s first professor of astronomy had very busy days, yet still managed to fit in a field trip to Siberia.

Published June 28, 2019 10:44 AM

The University’s Astronomical Observatory from 1833 is one of the oldest buildings built for the University. Here Professor Hansteen worked on astronomy, surveying, time and geomagnetism. Parts of the architect Grosch’s neo-classical building were in themselves a large scientific instrument.