Institution
European Southern Observatory
(ESO)
The European Southern Observatory (ESO) enables scientists worldwide to discover the secrets of the Universe for the benefit of all. They design, build and operate world-class observatories on the ground. Astronomers worldwide use their telescopes to tackle research questions and spread the fascination of astronomy.
ESO is an intergovernmental organisation established in 1962 supported by 16 EU Member States (Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom), their host country Chile and strategic partners.
ESO’s Headquarters are located in Garching, close to Munich in Germany.