On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, the Welcome Center organized a special evening event for international researchers and Ph.D. students: a guided tour of the Public Astronomical Observatory (Volkssternwarte) in Regensburg. This site, known as one of the oldest public observatories in Germany, offered a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the night sky and learn about the history of astronomy.
The group met promptly at 7:40 p.m. at the upper fountain in front of the Haus der Musik at Bismarckplatz. From there, the participants walked together to the observatory, which is located at ?gidienplatz 2 in the heart of the historic city center of Regensburg.
The evening began with an English-language guided tour of the observatory. Attendees learned about the facility's longstanding role in public education and its collaborations with other observatories. The guide also shared fascinating insights into the evolution of astronomical observation. One of the evening's highlights was observing the planets, stars, and constellations visible in the September sky through professional-grade telescopes. Participants could ask questions and interact with the guide to gain a deeper understanding of celestial phenomena in a setting that was both accessible and engaging.
The event attracted a diverse group of international researchers and scholars, offering an educational experience as well as an opportunity to socialize and connect with peers from different disciplines. The inspiring yet relaxed atmosphere made it an ideal environment for sharing a curiosity about the universe.
