Brno Observatory and Planetarium

The Brno Observatory and Planetarium can be found near the centre of the town, in the picturesque Kraví hora Park at the very top of the Kraví Hora (Cow Hill). Very few “scientific institutions” have embraced outreach and opened up to the public as successfully and in such a friendly way as this one.

Interesting discoveries and events in the natural sciences are presented in a lively way. The repertoire is complemented by exhibitions, entertaining happenings and concerts. There is a wonderful view of Brno and its environs from the top of Kraví Hora hill. There are a number of telescopes available at the observatory, which are used for guided public tours of the Sun and the marvels of the evening sky.

Kids and dogs run in the park, adults practice tai-chi and you can spread out a blanket, have a picnic and open a bottle of champagne. The observatory has things to offer even when the weather is dull. The hall of the digital planetarium – one of the largest planetariums in the Czech Republic – prepares composed performances complemented by unusual projections. It can take you not only into space, but also to places which are hard to reach – below the surface of the sea, into the human body, into the near future or the past, into the microscopic world or the macrocosm. In the adjacent exploratorium, you can immerse yourself even deeper into the secrets of the natural world. In the multi-purpose hall, experience the universe with your own eyes, ears and fingers. The hall features a breathtaking exhibition of the Realm of Nebulae, where you will be awed by images of the most beautiful cosmic nebulae taken by the largest astronomical instruments of the planet.

Don’t forget to visit the observation deck and the science trail. You can find several interactive exhibits here – kaleidoscope, pixel wall (kids love this the most), speaking tube, planetary dynamometer and spectroscope. There is free access to the exhibition without a guide. All areas are barrier-free for the disabled.

The public loves events which are held every year: Brno Museum Night (every May), Researchers' Night (every September) and Open Day (every October). A complete and up-to-date program can be found on the observatory’s website. In the summer months, we recommend combining a visit to the Brno Observatory and Planetarium with an active stay in the nearby Kraví Hora Sports and Recreation Centre.