Where Nasa & Star Trek Started: Galileo’s Observatory, Padova

La Specola - Padova

Last month the world celebrated the 40th Anniversary of men walking on the moon. This event happened long before my time, yet I still watched the clips with enthusiasm and felt proud that I was an American at that point when I saw the flag unrolled on the surface of the moon. Yet, I couldn’t help but realize that we wouldn’t be standing there at that point if it hadn’t been for great thinkers and dreamers before us.

In Padova, not far from Venice, you can visit the Galileo’s Observatory and get taken to the place where NASA, as well as Star Trek, all started. Located on the southwest corner of the historic center, the tower was Galileo’s refuge from the city lights and allowed him to track the movement of the stars without being interfered. The tower is now part of the University of Padova and guided tours take place only on the weekend…call ahead to make sure that they will be open on the day that you visit!

During the tour, you’ll climb up the tower steps and get pieces of information along the way about Galileo and his life in Padova. He was a teacher at the University, and if you have time, you can also check out the Anatomical Theatre where the Medical students used to study the autopsies…but that’s another article.

Anyhow, when you finally reach the observation deck of the observatory, you’ll have an unbelievable view of Padova as well as the hills and surrounding area. Night tours are also available, but are subject to the guide’s availability.

To purchase a ticket:
With the observatory behind you, cross the bridge and turn left under a small passageway. In front of you you will find a small church just off center to the right. The door is labeled for La Specola and that is where you need to go to get a ticket and make arrangements for a tour. For Specific times and costs, visit the official site of La Specola.