SAAO
BACKGROUND ON THE
SOUTH AFRICAN ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATORY
National Heritage Site declaration: 21 DECEMBER 2018
The South African Astronomical Observatory in Cape Town has played a highly significant scientific role over time as the oldest permanent observatory in the Southern Hemisphere. The site offers an overview of the history of astronomy both locally and internationally. It is a “living site” with more than 150 years history while still retaining its prominence in the international astronomical community.