The evolution of Astronomical Observatory design

TL;DR

This paper reviews the architectural evolution of astronomical observatories from 1259 to 2007, analyzing how design impacts research effectiveness and encouraging future architectural considerations.

Contribution

It provides a historical analysis of observatory architecture and highlights the need for integrating architectural and functional aspects in future designs.

Findings

Architectural features influence observatory performance

Historical trends show evolving design priorities

Limited prior focus on architecture's impact on research

Abstract

This work addresses the development of the astronomical observatory all through history, from an architectural point of view, as a building in relation to the observing instruments and their functioning as a heterogeneous work center. We focused on 32 observatories (in the period 1259-2007) and carefully analyzed the architectures. Considering the impact of the construction itself or its facilities on the results of the research (thermal or structural stability, poor weather protection, turbulence, etc.), there is little attention paid to theories or studies of the architectural or construction aspects of the observatories. Therefore, this work aims to present a theoretical-critical contribution that, at least, invites the reflection of those involved in the development of astronomical observatories in the future.