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Stargazing
A stargazing session at the observatory
Up to four adults (kids go free), a 250mm telescope, Saturn and nebulae nobody sees with the naked eye. An experience guided by an award-winning astrophotographer, under the dark skies of Alentejo.
Session details
A guided experience from start to finish: context on that night's sky, direct viewing through the 250mm telescope, and time for questions. Sessions run Tuesday to Saturday, starting about an hour after sunset.
- per adult · kids free
- 45€
- per adult · kids free
- session length
- 1–2h
- session length
- adults max
- 4
- adults max
- at the end of the session
- Portraits
- at the end of the session
What's included
Everything you need to know before booking
- Private session, group of up to 4 adults (kids go free)
- A 250mm telescope, guided by an astrophotographer awarded by NASA and ESA
- A casual portrait as a possible bonus during the night — not guaranteed, only if conditions allow (a dedicated portrait session is a separate service)
- Lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on the night's conditions
Cancellation policy
If weather conditions don't allow the session, you can always reschedule or get a full refund. You never lose what you paid.
Observatory
In the heart of Alentejo, under a starry sky
The observatory is in São Pedro da Gafanhoeira, Alentejo — skies free of light pollution, far from cities. This is where every session, workshop and portrait happens.
Get directionsFrequently asked questions
Still have questions?
What happens if the weather is bad? +
If conditions don't allow the observation, you can always reschedule for another night or get a full refund — you never lose what you paid.
What is the best time to see the Milky Way or a new moon? +
The Milky Way is best seen between March and October, ideally on a night close to the new moon, when the sky is darkest. Outside that window, you'll still see stars, planets and brighter objects without any problem.
Will I see planets or galaxies — what does it depend on? +
It depends on the night: close to full moon we see the Moon and planets best, which are bright targets; with a new moon and clear sky, the telescope reveals fainter galaxies and nebulae. Either way, there's always something to see.
Is there a minimum age for children? +
There's no set minimum age, but the session lasts 1 to 2 hours outdoors, at night — for very young children it can be a challenge to last the whole time. If you're unsure about your child's age, contact us before booking.
Do I need to know anything about astronomy? +
No prior knowledge is needed. The session is guided from start to finish, with accessible explanations for anyone who's never looked through a telescope.
What should I wear or bring? +
Warm clothes and closed shoes — even in summer, nights in Alentejo cool down a lot after sunset. You don't need to bring any gear, the telescope and everything else is already at the observatory.
Can I reschedule after paying? +
Yes. Besides automatic rescheduling for bad conditions, you can also ask to reschedule for other reasons — just contact us with some notice.
Is the casual portrait guaranteed? +
No. It's a possible bonus during the stargazing session, subject to that night's conditions — if you want a guaranteed portrait, the dedicated Portraits Under the Stars session is the right service.