English (UK)
Almería, 19 September 2025
Field of about 13x10 arcmin centered on the planetary nebula Messier 57 (incl. the spiral galaxy IC1296). Combination of 9x300 s exposures in Halpha and 9x300 s in [OIII] with the ASI461MM Pro. The red artefacts around bright stars are internal reflections due to the Halpha filter (655/16) used.
Credit: Javier Flores/CAHA/UNIR
The International University of La Rioja (UNIR) and Calar Alto Observatory have signed a collaboration agreement that will allow students of the UNIR Master's Degree in Astrophysics to observe remotely with the 1.23-meter telescope so as to complement their training.
The International University of La Rioja (UNIR) and the Spanish Astronomical Center in Andalusia (Spanish acronym: CAHA, aka Calar Alto Observatory) have signed a collaboration agreement which opens a new window to the cosmos for students of the Master's Degree in Astrophysics and Observation Techniques in Astronomy.
This agreement represents a unique opportunity for students to participate in real observations with the iconic 1.23-meter telescope at Calar Alto, located in the Sierra de los Filabres (Almería).
“The possibility to perform real observations at one of the most prestigious observatories in the world is undoubtedly an added value for UNIR's Master's Degree in Astronomy and Astrophysics,” says Roberto Baena, director of the program.
This kind of experience is essential for students, as it allows them to apply the theoretical knowledge acquired in class to a professional and highly specialized environment.
“The direct observation of celestial bodies, the use of advanced instrumentation, and the interpretation of real data are key skills in the development of future professionals and researchers in astronomy,” explains Baena.
Jesús Aceituno, CAHA director, emphasizes that “The Calar Alto Observatory is proud to open its facilities to UNIR students. We do believe that direct contact with research and real astronomical observation is the best way to inspire vocations and train the next generation of scientists.”
For UNIR students, collaborating with an institution of this importance means having a direct immersion in the heart of astronomical science.
Links between the university and the scientific world
This agreement not only reinforces the links between the university and the scientific world, but also strengthens the role of UNIR as an institution committed to academic excellence and educational innovation.
With this alliance, UNIR and CAHA are part of a common mission: training the astronomers of tomorrow with the tools of today and the inspiration of the stars.
The Calar Alto Observatory is one of the infrastructures that belong to the national map of Unique Scientific and Technical Infrastructures (Spanish acronym: ICTS), approved on March 11th, 2022, by the Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Council (CPCTI).
CONTACTS:
Universidad Internacional de la Rioja (UNIR) - Roberto Baena
Calar Alto (CAHA) Observatory - Gilles Bergond
COMMUNICATION - CALAR ALTO OBSERVATORY