Makes Observatory
About This Museum
Perched high in the lush hills of Saint-Louis, the Makes Observatory offers a profound disconnect from the ordinary, trading city lights for a pristine canopy of stars. It feels less like a formal institution and more like a privileged gateway to the cosmos, a feeling amplified by its intimate scale and the distinct lack of light pollution. Here, astronomy isn't just observed; it's an immersive, almost tactile experience under one of the world's clearest skies. The real magic happens after sunset, when the dome opens and the universe feels within arm's reach.
Collection Highlights
The main event is undoubtedly the powerful telescope housed within its iconic white dome, used for dazzling live views of Saturn's rings or distant nebulae. Beyond celestial observation, visitors can explore detailed meteorite specimens and engaging educational panels that tell the story of our solar system with remarkable clarity.
Visitor Information
You absolutely must book your spot online in advance, as evenings fill up quickly. Remember to bundle up—even on a warm Réunion day, those mountain nights get surprisingly chilly while you're stargazing.
Architecture & Building
The building is dominated by its classic astronomical white dome, which sits unassumingly amidst the greenery like a futuristic outpost that has quietly taken root in the jungle.
Contact & Location
Address: Observatoire des Makes, 18, Rue Georges Bizet, Les Makes, Saint-Louis, Saint-Pierre, La Réunion, 97421, France
Phone: +262 262 37 86 83
Website: Visit Website
