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observatory Definition

ob·serva·tory (əb zʉrv′ə tôr′ē)

noun pl. observatories -·ries

    1. a building equipped for scientific observation, esp. such a building with a large telescope for astronomical research
    2. an institution for such research
  2. any building or place providing an extensive view of the surrounding terrain

Etymology: ModL observatorium < pp. of L observare: see observe

observatory Synonyms

observatory

n.

watchtower, observation post, beacon; see lookout 1, tower.

observatory Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • orbit: This detailed view of the horse's head is being released to celebrate the orbiting observatory 's eleventh anniversary.
  • build: Lower capital cost when building the observatory - no need for living accommodation, etc for astronomers.
  • establish: Scientists in France and Italy are establishing a three-kilometer observatory near Pisa, Italy.

Preposition: on

  • top: The brave can choose an observatory on the top of an extinct volcano.

Adjective modifier

  • space-borne: Abstract LISA will be the first space-borne gravitational wave observatory.
  • space-based: The space-based observatory LISA is scheduled to launch in 2011.
  • meteorological: The meteorological observatory, with its Stevenson Screen, is atop a small rise.
  • infrared: Scientific Impact The JWST will be the world leading infrared observatory for the next decade.

Modifies a noun

  • building: The main observatory building houses three larger telescopes used for research projects.

Noun used with modifier

  • seafloor: Bond finance - is unlikely to be used for a seafloor observatory network project given its small size.
  • gamma-ray: From here ESA's gamma-ray observatory sends back to Earth new information about the most exciting phenomena in the universe.
  • X-ray: Chandra is NASA's flagship X-ray observatory mission, successfully launched on July 23rd 1999.