The Universe Observation Center:an educational center devoted to Astronomy in Catalonia

Abstract

The Universe Observation Center (in Catalan language, Centred'Observació de l'Univers, COU) is located in close proximity to theMontsec Astronomical Observatory (Observatori Astronòmic delMontsec, OAM), in eastern Catalonia (Spain). Both centers comprise theMontsec Astronomical Park (Parc Astronòmic Montsec, PAM), managedby the Consorci del Montsec. Montsec Mountain remains the finest locationfor astronomical observation in Catalonia, as demonstrated by asite-testing campaign conducted by the Astronomy and MeteorologyDepartment of the University of Barcelona. The COU consists of a Central Building (including a permanentexhibition and three classrooms possessing broadband Internet access), theTelescope Park (two astronomical domes equipped with medium-sizetelescopes, a coelostat for solar observation, and a portable telescopepark), the Eye of Montsec (a digital planetarium and, at the sametime, an extremely innovative platform for sky observation) and the Garden of the Universe (a tour of the land surrounding the COU, visitingseveral areas within it). The COU will offer to the Spanish academic community a host of fascinatingand unique activities in the fields of astronomy and geology. The Centeris open not only to students (from primary school through university), butalso to amateur astronomers, people interested in science and the generalpublic.