Telescope Observation

Useful Information

• Location: Los Genoveses Beach, Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park
• Duration: 2 hours
• Available Dates / Season:
  • July and August: every night
  • Every month except July and August: subject to availability and minimum group size
• Available Languages: Spanish, English, and French. (In July and August, since the majority of the group is Spanish-speaking, the experience is primarily in Spanish.)
• Recommended audience: Couples, families, astronomy enthusiasts, school groups.
• Required fitness level: Low (100-meter approach march).
• Maximum and minimum number of participants: Minimum 4 people and maximum 26 people. For private groups, the maximum and minimum number may vary.
• Recommended ages: From 8 years old.

Experience Description

Brief summary

Night sky observation with a high-power telescope, combined with astronomical interpretation adapted to all levels.

Full description

When night falls, the sky becomes a scene of wonder. This experience is divided into two parts. In the first part, we will observe the night sky with the naked eye: you will learn to orient yourself with the North Star, identify constellations visible according to the season, and learn about the mythological stories associated with the firmament. In the second part, we move on to observation with professional telescopes, where, depending on the sky conditions that night, we will be able to observe planets, the Moon, star clusters, nebulas, and galaxies located millions of light-years away. Our expert guide will help you interpret everything you see and enjoy a unique astronomical experience in a privileged setting like Playa de los Genoveses, free from light pollution.

Operational description

The day before the activity, you will be reminded again via email and WhatsApp with the activity information and the meeting point.
To reach the meeting point, the beach access barrier is free from 8:00 PM. Leave your car in the Los Genoveses beach parking lot and walk (approximately 100 meters) to the observation point where your guide will be waiting. The path is wheelchair accessible, making it easy. To reach the meeting point, you will need a flashlight (a cell phone flashlight will suffice).

Activity Objective

To foster curiosity about the universe through direct observation of the night sky and scientific and cultural learning.

Distinguishing Value

• Use of high-quality telescopes
• Real observation of planets, satellites, stars, and deep-sky objects
• Educational and accessible astronomical interpretation
• Spectacular natural setting

Operational Details

Meeting point

• Name: Astronomical Observation Point Astronomy Cabo de Gata, Playa de los Genoveses.
• Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6rgLfV7AMVBpK9kx6
  

Parking point

• Name: Los Genoveses Beach Parking
• Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XU5UQP5kVnhjh3DX6
  

What’s included

• Expert guide
• Professional telescope
• Blanket, pillow, and blanket
• Educational resources
• Accident insurance
• Souvenir photo

What the client should bring

• Warm clothing, water, suitable footwear, optional chair for adults with mobility difficulties who have difficulty lying on the Jarapa

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible

Price and Terms and Conditions

Rates

• €30 adults
• €20 children under 12
• Children under 5: free

Cancellation Policies

Cancellations

• Free up to 48 hours before arrival

Cloudy skies

• If there are clear skies: the guide’s experience will allow them to take advantage of the clearings to carry out the observation, talking about the constellations that appear as the wind moves the clouds.
• If fully booked: reschedule or 100% refund.
• Cancellations due to bad weather are determined by the guide, not the client.

Delays

• Maximum 5-minute wait.

It is recommended to arrive 10 minutes early.