Observatório Oficial Dark Sky Alqueva — Local services in Reguengos de Monsaraz

I knew about Dark Sky as in the Netherlands we also have a location on Terschelling which we visited. The observatory here was quite different but unique in it's own way. It is housed in an old small schoolbuilding, but the observatory post is outside behind the building. Joao was our host and man what passion and knowledge did the guy have. My wife expected something big thinking about space observatory, but I already had a look at the website and google maps location. As soon as the guide starts talking you get a feel about the contrast between the small observatory and the vastness of outer space you are looking at. The way the guide talks you thru some of the major space phenomena's is really interesting and continuing the experience of contrasts in space. There were three families with kids joining varying in age of 6 to 26 years. The planned visit of 1 hour expanded to over 1,5 hour because of all our questions, which clearly proved we were compelled. For the youngest ones perhaps a bit too long, mind you it was midnight. Icing on the cake was a live view thru telescope of Saturnus with it rings. One thing to be mind-full of, is we are so much spoiled by modern technology and media (hubble scope images), don't expect that kind of views. But the experience of being there guided by astrologist getting to know and see all these beautiful sightings of stars, planets and galaxies for me at least was breathtaking! Highly recommend if you have slight interest or...

We attended a Night Observation session at 23:00. We joined a large group (counted at least 16 people) for 2 telescopes and one of the telescopes could not be practically used for observations, as we were informed on the spot that it was broken. The introduction was interesting and Rebecca did a good job, but we spent way too much time on explanations. While the sky was clear, we spent the majority of the session with basic explanations. The session which was supposed to last 1:30 hours was cut short by 30 minutes and lasted approximately 1 hour as clouds covered the sky. During that time we only did 3 observations which was a big disappointment. Considering that both telescopes had point and track computers, it is a pity that we spent 90% of the session just talking, instead of observing the sky. After the session ended we were not able to return to the main building to check if there was any merchandise on the gift shop. Personally this session was a disappointment. Unfortunately we left with the feeling of not coming back. If you never observed the night sky before, then I suppose this is a good place to do it. Otherwise, if it's not your first time, I...

Great place to learn about some astronomy concepts. 2 or 3 sessions every night between Tuesday and Saturday. The staff is outstanding with tons of knowledge. A couple of telescopes allows you to observe objects like the moon, solar system planets, comets (if you are lucky) and deep sky objects like nebulas, star clusters, galaxies and binary stars. If you never had an experience, this place is mandatory. The sky on the region is relatively dark which is great. Better if you can select a day (or night!) without clouds and preferably close to the dark moon period as the observation will improve a lot (check the ipma.pt website before booking). They also make sessions for sun observation but I never did it. Try to check with them the level of explanation. If you're not a beginner you may want probably a more advanced session. Otherwise, you'll learn the very basics (I am not going to disclose that information not to spoil your surprise there). Especially great for kids. Not so great if you have some knowledge already. A place to go, where every Euro you spend is...