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South African Astronomical Observatory

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South African Astronomical Observatory

Cape Town, South Africa
Best timeDec–Mar
Set inCape Town, South Africa
In season~81°F high
Climate
Data source

Climate

Source

2018–2023 averages, not a forecast. Wet days estimate days with at least 1 mm of rain or snow using a calibrated ERA5 threshold. Contains modified Copernicus Climate Change Service information. Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (AWS Open Data, CC BY 4.0).

ERA5 via Open-Meteo AWS Open Data

48–81°F
CurrencyZAR
LanguageZulu
TimezoneUTC+02:00
On the map
Map showing the location of South African Astronomical Observatory
Directions (Google Maps) →
Historical monthly weather

Sweet spotPeak Dec–Feb. Go in Mar, Nov for similar weather.

Sunny share of daylightJan · 75%
WarmestJan · 81°F
WettestJun
Best windowDec–Mar
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Bar height is the typical daytime high; color shows sunny share of daylight. The shaded months are the ideal window to go.
Weather data & source

2018–2023 averages, not a forecast. Wet days estimate days with at least 1 mm of rain or snow using a calibrated ERA5 threshold. Contains modified Copernicus Climate Change Service information. Weather data by Open-Meteo.com (AWS Open Data, CC BY 4.0). Sunny share of daylight is calibrated from daytime cloud cover. ERA5 via Open-Meteo AWS Open Data

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is the national centre for optical and infrared astronomy in South Africa. It was established in 1972. The observatory is run by the National Research Foundation of South Africa. The facility's function is to conduct research in astronomy and astrophysics. The primary telescopes are located in Sutherland, which is 370 kilometres (230 mi) from Observatory, Cape Town, where the headquarters is located.

Best time to visit

Aim for Dec–Mar, the 4 months that line up best.

Pairs well with

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit South African Astronomical Observatory?

The best time to visit South African Astronomical Observatory is December–March, in Cape Town, South Africa.

Where is South African Astronomical Observatory?

South African Astronomical Observatory is in Cape Town, South Africa.

What is South African Astronomical Observatory known for?

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is the national centre for optical and infrared astronomy in South Africa. It was established in 1972. The observatory is run by the National Research Foundation of South Africa. The facility's function is to conduct research in astronomy and astrophysics. The primary telescopes are located in Sutherland, which is 370 kilometres (230 mi) from Observatory, Cape Town, where the headquarters is located.

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