The Astronomy Hub
of Saint-Michel
The Astronomy Hub of Saint-Michel
A visit to Saint-Michel-l’Observatoire isn’t complete without exploring its world of astronomy. The Observatoire de Haute-Provence (Haute-Provence Observatory) is home to a groundbreaking discovery: in 1995, Swiss astronomers Michel Mayor and Didier Queloz identified the first extrasolar planet here—a discovery that earned them the 2019 Nobel Prize in Physics.
Whether you’re new to stargazing or an astronomy enthusiast, the Centre d’Astronomie (Astronomy Center) offers you the chance to peer through telescope eyepieces during themed evenings or special solar observation sessions.
Your Visit to Centre Astro…
Planetarium
Step inside southeastern France’s largest hybrid planetarium, settle into your seat, and prepare to be amazed.
As the lights dim in this state-of-the-art theater, a sky of nearly forty million stars unfolds above you.
Our cutting-edge hybrid projector displays ultra-high-definition images (8K) on the dome in real time, captured by Centre Astro’s telescopes.
Evening Sky Discovery
Your evening begins at the Siderostat observatory, where you’ll explore the night sky, identify constellations and celestial objects, and learn about the latest astronomy news.
Next, step outside for a laser-guided tour of the night sky, helping you identify the main constellations with the naked eye.
Finally, peer through Centre Astro’s telescopes to observe the celestial wonders visible that night.
In case of bad weather, the outdoor portion will be replaced by an indoor panorama of the Universe—a journey from the Sun to distant galaxies, exploring the secrets of our Solar System and the life of stars.
Exploration 2.0
This evening begins at the planetarium, where you’ll discover the night sky and preview what you’ll observe during your visit. An immersive experience offering an exceptional panorama of the Universe, all while comfortably seated.
The program continues outdoors with a laser-guided tour of the night sky, helping you spot the main constellations with the naked eye.
Then it’s time for observation, featuring among others Centre Astro’s largest telescope, the T760.
At the end of the evening, thanks to our automated 2.0 telescopes, you’ll be able to download images of your observations.
An evening where comfort meets technology under the stars.
Solar Observation: See Our Star in a New Light
The Sun reveals its secrets! Using specialized solar observation instruments, safely discover sunspots, prominences, and other solar features.
Our guides provide live commentary on how the Sun works, the latest discoveries in stellar astronomy, and our star’s crucial role in the evolution of life on Earth.
Visit to the Observatoire de Haute-Provence (OHP)
Step into a world-class astrophysical research facility. During this exclusive guided tour, you’ll access the famous dome housing the 1.93-meter telescope, the instrument that enabled the 1995 discovery of the first exoplanet—a breakthrough that earned its discoverers the 2019 Nobel Prize in Physics.
A unique opportunity to dive into the history of modern astronomy!
Two Educational Nature Trails
Extend your experience by discovering the themed trails around the Observatoire de Haute-Provence:
The Climate Trail (opened in 2024): 11 panels to understand climate change and atmospheric research conducted at the OHP, through a forest path accessible to all.
The Biodiversity Trail: Located at the forest edge, this trail offers 16 observation points on fauna, flora, and soils, with a footbridge, insect trap, and soil cross-section to explore the richness of the local ecosystem.
rates & opening hours
2026 Admission Rates
General admission: €5
3-day pass: €15 (includes access to all municipal museums and galleries)
Adult groups: €4
Free admission for visitors under 18, teachers, students, job seekers, members of the press, and visitors with disabilities (plus one companion).
Group rate available for 10 or more people.
saint-michel
astronomy hub
04870 Saint-Michel l’Observatoire
the hub history
Construction begins on the Observatoire de Haute-Provence, slowed by World War II (the site has been listed as a historic monument since 2017).
Discovery of the first extrasolar planet (outside the Solar System) by two Swiss astronomers, Michel MAYOR and Didier QUELOZ.
Creation and installation of the Centre d'Astronomie on the Plateau du Moulin à Vent with support from the Departmental Council of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur Regional Council.
Opening of the Planétarium de Haute-Provence (Haute-Provence Planetarium), built by the Haute-Provence Pays de Banon Community of Communes, at the Centre d'Astronomie site.
témoignages
“En Haute-Provence, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie est un trésor caché. Ce village enchanteur, avec ses ruelles pavées et sa célèbre faïence, m’a offert une expérience inoubliable. Un véritable joyau où tradition et beauté se rencontrent.”
“En Haute-Provence, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie est un trésor caché. Ce village enchanteur, avec ses ruelles pavées et sa célèbre faïence, m’a offert une expérience inoubliable. Un véritable joyau où tradition et beauté se rencontrent.”
“En Haute-Provence, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie est un trésor caché. Ce village enchanteur, avec ses ruelles pavées et sa célèbre faïence, m’a offert une expérience inoubliable. Un véritable joyau où tradition et beauté se rencontrent.”
autour de l'astronomie
Découvrez les mystères de l’univers avec notre circuit d’astronomie. Commencez par une visite guidée d’un observatoire pour explorer les étoiles, poursuivez par une expérience immersive au planétarium, et terminez au centre astro avec des ateliers interactifs et l’observation du ciel nocturne. Une aventure captivante pour tous les passionnés de l’espace !
