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Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre

The Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Centre is located in Irbene, a former Soviet military town near the sea between Kolka and Ventspils. It is managed by the Engineering Research Center of Ventspils University College. Here, a 32-meter fully rotatable parabolic antenna, RT-32, the largest in Northern Europe and the eighth largest in the world, is still in operation for scientific purposes, along with another 16-meter antenna, RT-16.

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History

It was once one of the most secretive military bases in the Baltics, used for espionage, intercepting signals, and eavesdropping on Europe and America. In 2014, significant reconstruction work began, and the antennas were computerized. In 1994, when the Soviet army withdrew, a special unit from Moscow was sent to damage the equipment, making it practically unusable without restoration.

Science

The Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center's tasks include conducting fundamental research in astronomy and astrophysics and applied research in space technology. The parabolic antennas are used for observing interstellar medium objects, solar radio observations, radiolocation of asteroids and artificial bodies near Earth, including space debris, and very long baseline interferometry, tracking objects outside the Solar System.

Former Military Town

In the 1990s, after Latvia regained independence, it took over the "Zvaigznīte" site from the Russian army. Several dilapidated buildings from the military heritage remain in Irbene.

Nearby Attractions

There are other noteworthy sites around Irbene. About 9 kilometers away on the Kurzeme coast is the Oviši Lighthouse, built in 1905 and the oldest surviving navigation structure in Latvia. Equally distant is the Miķeļbāka Lighthouse, the tallest in the Baltics at 62 meters. The beautiful Irbe River, popular among canoeists seeking respite from civilization, flows near the Irbene area. Nearby are the Slītere National Park, Kolka Cape, and the unique Livonian coast cultural-historical area, Lībiešu krasts.

Tours

Since the Irbene radio telescope is no longer a secret military object, guided tours are available. Visitors can walk around the area and see the laboratory buildings and exhibitions during the tour. Tours must be booked in advance.

Tourism Service Rates:

  • Tour for a group of fewer than 10 people – 80 EUR
  • Individual prices (for groups larger than 10 people):
    • Adults – 10 EUR
    • Students, pensioners – 7 EUR
    • Schoolchildren, children aged 6 and above – 5 EUR

Payment methods: cash and cashless transactions.

Tour Information

Tours must be booked at least 3 days in advance!

If you decide to visit the Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center, email infovirac@venta.lv or call +371 29230818 to book a tour.

Activities Included in the Tour:

  • A walk around the Irbene area surrounding the RT-32 radio telescope,
  • Viewing the RT-8 tower and its exhibits on the operation of RT-32 and RT-16 during the Soviet era,
  • Viewing the "old" RT-16 antenna located near RT-8,
  • A hike through the underground tunnel.

For more detailed information and pricing, please click here.
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