
PAGASA Astronomical Observatory UP
Discover the cosmos at PAGASA Astronomical Observatory UP Diliman. Witness planets through powerful telescopes and attend educational stargazing event...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Unique celestial shows

PAGASA Astronomical Observatory UP
Best Time
Unique celestial shows

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the cosmos at PAGASA Astronomical Observatory UP Diliman. Witness planets through powerful telescopes and attend educational stargazing events.
"An enlightening experience with in-depth information about stars and their positions in space."

📅 Check Event Schedule
Visit their website for astronomical events like eclipses or stargazing sessions.
📍 Confirm Directions
UP Diliman can be tricky; confirm your route to BIR Road beforehand.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gigantic Telescope Viewing
Main Observatory Dome
Witness celestial wonders through a powerful telescope, offering clear views of planets and stars.

Stargazing Sessions
Observatory Grounds
Experience the night sky like never before during special stargazing events.

Educational Astronomy Talks
Lecture Area
Learn fascinating facts about stars, planets, and the universe from knowledgeable staff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check for Special Events
Getting There & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Check Event Schedule
Visit their website for astronomical events like eclipses or stargazing sessions.
📍 Confirm Directions
UP Diliman can be tricky; confirm your route to BIR Road beforehand.
how to get to observatory
Hi! Paano po pumunta sa PAGASA Astronomical Observatory kapag galing ng Marikina Bayan? Thank you!
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience beyond the main telescope. :telescope:
📝 Take Notes
Absorb the in-depth info from guides like Mr. Niko Mendoza. :memo:
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check Event Schedule
Visit their website for astronomical events like eclipses or stargazing sessions.
📍 Confirm Directions
UP Diliman can be tricky; confirm your route to BIR Road beforehand.
🔭 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience beyond the main telescope. :telescope:
📝 Take Notes
Absorb the in-depth info from guides like Mr. Niko Mendoza. :memo:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the PAGASA Astronomical Observatory for its incredible celestial viewing opportunities, especially during special events like eclipses. The knowledgeable and engaging staff significantly enhance the educational experience. While access within UP Diliman can require some navigation, the unique cosmic insights gained make it a worthwhile destination for all ages.
"Observatory in Manila. On the day of the eclipse, I was lucky enough to see the special celestial show here. The gigantic telescope captured the mysterious appearance of the sun and moon. It must be a wonderful night to see the stars here. All the staff were very kind, and they advised me to check the website for days with astronomical events and visit.
Come and have a wonderful experience that is different from usual !"
大串弥生
"It was such a wonderful and enlightening experience for us to visit the PAGASA Astronomical Observatory in Diliman.
Plus having Mr. Niko Mendoza assist to us made our experience even more special, fun, and interesting with all of his in depth information about the stars, their positions in space, their significance and even how to remember their names and position in the sky. He made Astronomy seem so fun that my two adult children who were with me got interested in joining the Philippine Astronomical Society!
Kudos Mr. Niko Mendoza!
PS
God willing we can upgrade our equipment sooner so our knowledge of astronomy would be enhanced."
Oliver Cailles
"We used to go here during lunar eclipses and when Haley’s comet passed by. Would love to go back again to do some star watching."
Ruben Canlas Jr.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Marikina Bayan, you can take a jeepney or bus heading towards Cubao or Aurora Boulevard, then transfer to a jeepney or UV Express bound for UP Diliman. Ask to be dropped off near the PAGASA Astronomical Observatory along BIR Road. It's advisable to check real-time ride-sharing apps for the most direct routes.
Several jeepney routes and buses pass through UP Diliman. Common routes include those from Cubao, Quiapo, and Katipunan. Once inside UP Diliman, you might need to take another internal jeepney or walk to reach the observatory on BIR Road.
Parking availability can be limited, especially during special events. It's recommended to arrive early or consider public transport if possible.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Grab are a convenient option. Simply set your destination to PAGASA Astronomical Observatory, UP Diliman.
The observatory is located along BIR Road within the UP Diliman campus. It's a good idea to have a map of the campus handy or ask for directions once you're inside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the observatory grounds is generally free, but special events might have associated fees or require pre-registration. It's best to check their official website or social media for the latest information.
The observatory's operating hours can vary, especially for public viewing. They often have specific hours for events. Always check their website for the most current schedule.
While special events offer the best viewing opportunities, you can sometimes visit during regular hours for educational purposes. Contacting them in advance is recommended.
For popular events like stargazing sessions or eclipses, advance booking or pre-registration is often required due to limited capacity.
Generally, there are no strict age restrictions, and the observatory is a great place for all ages to learn about astronomy.
🎫 🔭 Onsite Experience
You can view planets like Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn, as well as the Moon, through their powerful telescopes. They also host talks and educational sessions.
Yes, knowledgeable staff, like Mr. Niko Mendoza, often provide guided tours and in-depth information about celestial bodies and astronomy.
Bring a jacket as it can get cool at night, a mat or blanket to sit on, and perhaps binoculars for an enhanced view. A red-light flashlight is also useful to preserve night vision.
Information on accessibility can vary. It's best to contact the observatory directly to inquire about specific facilities and accommodations.
Photography is usually allowed, but tripods might be restricted during busy events. Always check for any specific photography guidelines.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there are no food concessions directly within the observatory. You may find food options within the wider UP Diliman campus or nearby areas.
Bringing your own snacks and drinks is usually permitted, especially for longer events. However, be sure to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
The UP Diliman campus has various canteens and eateries. For more diverse options, you can explore areas like the UP Town Center or nearby commercial establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
The main dome with its telescope, the surrounding grounds during sunset or night, and any educational displays offer great photo opportunities.
Tripod usage might be restricted during peak hours or special events to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's advisable to confirm this with the staff on-site.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming might require special permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Check for family-friendly events, bring snacks and drinks as dining options are limited, and consider using ride-sharing apps for easier access. Ensure children are supervised, especially during stargazing sessions when it's dark.
🔭 Astronomy Enthusiasts
Recommendations: Follow the observatory's social media for announcements on rare celestial events. Consider joining local astronomy groups if you're looking to enhance your knowledge and equipment, as suggested by some visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Celestial Wonders
Beyond the main telescope, the observatory often hosts special celestial events, such as meteor showers, lunar eclipses, and planetary parades. These events are highlighted in news and social media, drawing crowds eager to witness rare astronomical phenomena. The staff, like the highly praised Mr. Niko Mendoza, are known for their in-depth knowledge and engaging explanations, making complex astronomical concepts accessible and fun for everyone, even sparking interest in joining astronomy societies.
For those planning a visit, checking the observatory's official website or social media for scheduled events is crucial. This ensures you don't miss out on unique opportunities and can plan your trip accordingly. The observatory serves as a vital hub for astronomical education and public engagement in the Philippines.
Navigating UP Diliman to the Observatory
Once inside the campus, navigating to the observatory, located along BIR Road, can be a minor challenge. Some visitors suggest using ride-sharing apps for convenience, while others rely on internal UP Diliman jeepneys or a good old-fashioned map. Asking locals or campus security for directions to BIR Road is often the most straightforward approach.
Given its location within a large university, parking can be scarce, particularly during popular events. Therefore, opting for public transportation or ride-sharing services is often recommended to avoid parking hassles. Planning your route in advance will significantly enhance your visit.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit