The research institute called "Crimean Astrophysical Observatory" is located in the urban-type settlement of Nauchny, Bakhchisaray district. This place will be extremely interesting for travelers who are interested in astrophysics, planetary mechanics, structure and evolution of the Universe, even at an amateur level.
The village itself was founded in 1947 and was initially intended exclusively for employees. However, now the village is home not only to astronomers, astrophysicists and other scientific fraternity, but also to ordinary local residents. Today the village is quite developed and has a well-developed infrastructure, largely due to tourism. On its territory there is a comprehensive school, shops, a library, a hospital, a hotel, a leisure club and other attributes of civilization.
Nauchny is located in a picturesque mountainous area, at an altitude of 600 m above sea level, surrounded by mountains on all sides. The village can be reached from Simferopol, from the Western bus station. The distance from Nauchny to Simferopol is 40 kilometers. It will also be easiest for tourists to stay in the same Simferopol, for example, in the inexpensive and comfortable hotel "Vienna", a photo of which you can see below. And from Simferopol you can make tourist trips not only to the Crimean observatory, but also to any other attractions of the peninsula.
When you get off the bus, you are struck by the incredibly beautiful area, enchanting with its views of the pine forest and divine smells. The entire town is immersed in a state of silence and peace, which captivates and has a relaxing effect on a person tired of the bustle of the city.
The scientific center regularly welcomes tourists from different countries who come specifically to enjoy the starry sky and at least slightly touch the secrets of astronomy.
The observatory has a mirror telescope named after Academician G. A. Shain, which is the second largest among all CIS countries. The diameter of the telescope mirror is 2.6 m. Its dimensions are truly impressive! This telescope is the main structural element of the entire observatory.
To get on a tour, you need to submit an application by phone or in person when meeting with a tour guide. When a group of the required number of people is assembled, the tour begins in the main building, from where tourists are led along a special route, where, let's admit, there really is something to see. A telescope given by Hitler to the Italian dictator Mussolini, a tower solar telescope and many other interesting things. It is worth noting that the village is located in the forest, and therefore it is very easy to go beyond the boundaries of civilization. Tourists can spend time swimming in the local lake, or simply walking along the streets or in the forest.
If a tourist decides to live not in Simferopol or Bakhchisarai, but directly in the village of Nauchny, then he can stay in a local hotel or rent an apartment from the locals.
Let's add that before the evening excursion to the observatory, there are sellers of souvenirs, natural honey, and also grandmothers selling tea and delicious pies with a variety of fillings. They certainly won't let you go on the excursion hungry.
