The Arcetri Astrophysical Observatory is a public center for scientific research which is part of the National Institute for Astrophysics (INAF). At present, about a hundred people work at the Observatory, among them are astronomers, technical - administrative staff and students coming from all around the world.

Research activities are developed in cooperation with the Department of Astronomy of the University of Florence and range from the studies on our Sun and the Solar System to the star clusters of our galaxy; from the areas of new star formations and planetary systems to the final phases of stellar evolution which produce pulsars and black holes; from nearby galaxies to the limits of the observable universe.

At the Observatory, there are active experimental groups which develop technologies for the realization of the largest optical and infrared telescopes and of advanced optical instrumentation for visible wavelengths, infrared and radio. These activities seek to answer the basic questions of modern astronomy: How stars, planetary systems that accompany them, and galaxies are born and live? How did the universe and the structures that populate it originate? How has life evolved in the universe and is it a common or rare event? What is dark matter that permeates space within and between galaxies?

Coordinates:

Lat.: 43^o45'14.4" N   Long.: 11^o15'19.2" E  (Astron.)          Lat.: 43^o45'02" N    Long.: 11^o15'16" E (WGS84)