# observatory

/əbˈzɝvəˌtɔɹi/ (US) · /ɒbzˈɜːvətəɹˌi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/observatory
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. astronomical facility

noun · CEFR B2

a building with a large telescope used for studying the stars, planets, and space.

For teachers: a specialized facility designed for astronomical observation, typically housing a large telescope and often situated at high altitudes to minimize atmospheric interference.

- The school trip to the mountain observatory allowed the students to see the rings of Saturn clearly.
- Modern astronomical observatories are frequently located in remote deserts or on volcanic peaks to ensure the clearest possible view of distant galaxies.

Usage: Often used with the definite article when referring to a specific famous facility.

### 2. viewing platform

noun · CEFR B2

a high place or deck on a tall building where you can look out over a city or landscape.

For teachers: a high vantage point or viewing platform, often located at the summit of a skyscraper, intended for public sightseeing or surveillance.

- We took the lift to the observatory on the 100th floor to see the city lights at night.
- The skyscraper features a glass-floored observatory that provides tourists with a panoramic, albeit dizzying, view of the metropolitan skyline.

Usage: Commonly used in the context of urban tourism and architecture.

## Examples

- The observatory is open to the public on Friday nights.
- High on the mountain peak, the observatory provides a clear view of the stars away from city lights.
- Modern research facilities often house the observatory in remote, high-altitude locations to minimize atmospheric interference and light pollution, ensuring the highest possible resolution for deep-space imaging.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.