Behind the scenes at Onsala Space Observatory

Join us behind the scenes at Chalmers’ research infrastructure facility, Onsala Space Observatory. Since the mid-20th century, researchers here have been studying both the universe and our own planet.

In the video, we meet astronomer and observatory communicator Robert Cumming, who talks about the work carried out at Onsala. We gain insight into how the telescopes “see” radio waves from space and how these observations can help answer some of the biggest questions: how stars and planets are formed, and how the Earth changes over time.

50th Anniversary of an Iconic Telescope

In May 2026, a special anniversary will also be celebrated. The iconic 20-metre telescope, protected by a large white radome, turns 50 years old. Since its inauguration in 1976, the telescope has played an important role in both Swedish and international research.

Collage from when the telescope was built in the mid 1970´s

The 20 meter telescope at Onsala Space Observatory

Historical images from when the construction of the telescope during the mid 1970´s

About Onsala Space Observatory

Onsala Space Observatory is Sweden’s national facility for radio astronomy and geodesy. Advanced telescopes and instruments are used here to study molecules and processes in space, participate in global research collaborations — such as imaging black holes — and measure the Earth’s movements, contributing to climate change research.

The observatory also welcomes visitors year-round and actively works to share knowledge about space and the role of research in society.

Onsala Space Observatory

Onsala Space Observatory is the Swedish national infrastructure for radio astronomy.