Sky dome for even deeper exploration of space

Stargaze, get to know space a little better… With the installation of a dome in the heart of the regional natural park of Causses du Quercy in Saint-Martin-Labouval, astronomy lovers will be delighted to discover space from a new angle. The project for the installation of this building belongs to Emmanuel Thiers, sole proprietor and director of Astronomade in Tour de Fort. The observatory, inaugurated this Wednesday, will welcome the public in the company of an astronomer who, with the help of suitable equipment, will explain and analyze the cosmos, the constellations, the Sun and the planets in the best possible conditions.

The dome will also be used to observe comets and asteroids. PNR supported Astronomade in the implementation of this project: “This new equipment allows us to observe the quality of the sky. This is an educational and tourism activity that will increase the attractiveness of the park,” notes Nils Brunet, director of the PNR. The park, dedicated to the preservation of the starry sky, has six viewing platforms, such as Limon, Carlucet and Myers, with an interpretation table and sometimes slabs for mounting telescopes.

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Ideal spot for observation

The location was not chosen by chance: “The horizon had to be as clear as possible and take into account the weather. There is a lot of fog in the valley in winter, which can be a problem. This dome is more accessible than the dome of the observatories at the Pic du Midi in the Pyrenees or in the Alps,” explains Emmanuel Thiers. Astronomy will be available year-round for enthusiasts who will not be covered in snow. This space is ideal for sky and stargazing as it is located in the “Black Triangle of Quercy”, a poorly lit area protected from light pollution. Luckily, the dome is located on the Via Kauss’mos hiking trail. It is located on an already developed area to minimize the impact of the project on the natural environment.

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Dome of a former military base

Installing an observation dome is expensive. So for his project, Emmanuel Thiers turned to used equipment to save some money, but it is just as effective as new equipment: “Everything is reused for its intended purpose, which avoids good quality material being thrown into the trash. As for the dome, which is about fifty years old, it comes straight from a former military base. Therefore, Emmanuel Thiers looked for this three-ton building in Aveyron, quite a project for one person, but the game is worth the effort, this dome will immerse the public a little more in the stars.