A series of modular benches, white in color and arranged symmetrically, visually anticipate a minimal and clean architectural structure, with straight lines and smooth surfaces that surmount a petal structure, the dome, with its segmented curvilinear silhouette that stands out against the sky clear. The entrance portico, defined by cylindrical columns, invites visitors inside, and even the surrounding greenery seems to be the result of a thoughtful calculation.
We are located in Rozzano, near Milan, and this ethereal structure is the Astronomical Observatory, inaugurated in May 2023 based on a design by Patrizio Cimino for the Rozzano Amateur Astronomers Group, and is located in the park of the Cascina Grande Cultural Center. The interior of the observatory is designed with technical spaces, a small museum which houses the collection of documents and original drawings of the astronomer Mentore Maggini, and a conference room located on the ground floor, which has a window overlooking the park, serves as a connection point between the inside and the outside, inviting the public to an immersive experience.
Returning to the petal dome, which opens 360 degrees, it is the largest of its kind in Italy, an architectural choice that not only amazes with its beauty but also offers the unique possibility of using two telescopes simultaneously, namely the Merz- Dallmeyer, a period treasure found in a private home in Vigevano, restored and brought back to its former glory; and the 16-inch Meade ACF, equipped with the latest technologies, for scientific research missions, exploration of planets, asteroids and all astronomical phenomena.
The observatory, managed by the Gruppo Astrofili Rozzano, an association active since 1982, is also a place designed for aggregation and for the community, where events, meetings and educational activities open the doors of astronomy to everyone, from the youngest to adults, from beginners to experts.
