A Journey Through the IAS Observatory at Hakos Astrofarm

On July 25, we had the incredible opportunity to visit the IAS Observatory at the Hakos Astrofarm in Namibia – a true paradise for astronomy enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of one of the darkest skies on Earth, this observatory offers a breathtaking view of the cosmos and houses an impressive collection of telescopes.

The Setting

Hakos Astrofarm is located in the Khomas Highlands of Namibia, far away from city lights and pollution. The dry climate and high altitude make it one of the best places in the world for stargazing. As we arrived, the vast landscape and clear skies immediately set the tone for an unforgettable experience.

Exploring the IAS Observatory

The IAS Observatory is operated by the International Amateur Observatory (IAS), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing access to professional-grade instruments for amateur astronomers and researchers. You can learn more about their mission and facilities here.

During our tour, we were amazed by the variety of telescopes available. From smaller instruments for wide-field imaging to large, high-precision telescopes designed for deep-sky observations, the observatory is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about astronomy. Each telescope is equipped with advanced mounts and cameras, enabling visitors to capture stunning images of galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters.

Highlights of the Visit

• State-of-the-art equipment: We saw telescopes ranging from portable setups to large, permanently mounted instruments.
• Dark skies: The absence of light pollution allows the observers to get the most out of their telescopes.
• Community and knowledge sharing: The IAS team explained how they support amateur astronomers worldwide, offering remote access to their telescopes for imaging and research.