Category: News

The Asteroid 2024 YR4: Is Gran Telescopio Canarias tracking it up? In recent months, many clients, enthusiasts, and followers of Astrolapalma have asked us if any of the telescopes in La Palma—especially the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC)—are observing a potentially hazardous asteroid. The answer is yes: scientists from the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC), together with international collaborators, are closely monitoring asteroid 2024 YR4, a recently added object to the European Space Agency’s (ESA) impact risk list. Asteroid 2024 YR4: What Do We Know? Asteroid 2024 YR4 was discovered on December 28, 2024, by the Pan-STARRS 2 telescope in Hawaii. It is a Near-Earth Object (NEO) belonging to the Aten group, characterized by orbits that cross Earth’s path. Its estimated size ranges between 38 and 85 meters in diameter, depending on its reflectivity (albedo). During the early months of 2025, uncertainty about its orbital path led to its inclusion in ESA’s CLOMON risk list. Why Is This Important? In February 2025, initial observations estimated a 3.1% probability that 2024 YR4 could impact Earth on November 27, 2032. This was the highest probability recorded for an object of this type, triggering international observation protocols. However, thanks to new data gathered by telescopes worldwide—including some from La Palma—this probability has drastically dropped to below 0.004%. New simulations have revealed an unexpected development: the probability of an impact with the Moon is now estimated at 4.3%, based on analyses using data from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope and the NASA Scout system. While still relatively low, this value is significant enough to justify ongoing monitoring. Monitoring from the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory Since early 2025, the IAC has led an intensive observation program at the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory in La Palma to refine the orbit of 2024 YR4. The

40th Anniversary of the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory: Four Decades Serving International Astrophysics On July 24, 2025, the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory (ORM) celebrates 40 years since its official inauguration. This facility is one of the most important scientific infrastructures in the Northern Hemisphere for astronomical observation.Located at 2,396 meters above sea level in the municipality of Garafía, on the island of La Palma, this strategic site has served for four decades as a key hub for optical, infrared, solar, and very high-energy astrophysics, under the coordination of the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC). Roque de los Muchachos Observatory: A Story of Science and International Cooperation The Observatory was officially inaugurated on July 24, 1985, by Their Majesties the Kings of Spain, with the presence of scientific and diplomatic representatives from various countries. Its establishment followed years of meteorological and astronomical studies confirming the exceptional quality of La Palma’s skies for astronomy.Since its beginnings, the ORM has hosted telescopes operated by institutions from Spain, the United Kingdom, Italy, Norway, Germany, Sweden, and Japan, becoming a model of sustained international scientific collaboration. Astronomical Infrastructure at the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory Below is a list of the main telescopes currently operating at the ORM, grouped by type of observation: Optical and Infrared Telescopes Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC) 10.4-meter aperture Operated by the IAC, it is the largest optical-infrared telescope in the world. It has played a key role in the characterization of exoplanets, galaxy evolution, and dark matter detection. William Herschel Telescope (WHT) 4.2-meter aperture Managed by the Isaac Newton Group (UK-Spain), it features cutting-edge spectroscopic instrumentation for observing faint objects. Telescopio Nazionale Galileo (TNG) 3.58-meter aperture Owned by the Italian INAF, it excels in high-resolution spectroscopy for planetary and stellar studies. Nordic Optical Telescope (NOT) 2.56-meter aperture

We’ve just opened our new Astronomy shop! As part of our mission to bring the universe closer to you, we’re excited to announce the launch of our brand-new astronomy shop — right here in La Palma! Starting now, you can pre-order your official astronomy merchandise and pick it up on the day of your astrotourism activity with us. A unique souvenir of your night under the stars… or the perfect gift for fellow sky lovers. We now have official Gran Telescopio Canarias merchandising! ️ What will you find? We’ve curated a beautiful selection of products for astronomy enthusiasts, inspired by the night sky and the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC) — the world’s largest optical telescope: T-shirts and hoodies featuring exclusive illustrations and official GTC logos ☕ Mugs and caps with celestial and telescope-themed designs Sterling silver jewelry inspired by constellations and lunar phases USB drives shaped like rockets, planets, and stars Specialist astronomy books for all knowledge levels Star maps and planispheres to help you identify constellations Keyrings with astronomy symbols and GTC branding Collectible magnets with galactic and telescope motifs And many more cosmic surprises coming soon! How does it work? Place your order online using our request form We’ll prepare it for you in advance Pick it up and pay in person when you come for your stargazing activity This way, you skip the wait, avoid unnecessary packaging — and take home a piece of the universe with you! A piece of the sky… in your everyday life Because looking up connects us to something greater. And now, you can take the stars home — in the form of a mug, a book, a t-shirt or a silver pendant. Order now and get ready to experience the universe — from La Palma to your hands. [ Book your visit

Roque de los Muchachos Observatory: 16 Years with Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC) Roque de los Muchachos Observatory: 16 Years Leading Astronomy with the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC) is a world-renowned astronomy hub located in La Palma. Thanks to the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC), which in 2025 celebrates 16 years of scientific operation, the observatory has established itself as a leader in cutting-edge astronomical research and discovery. Managed by the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) and GRANTECAN S.A., this observatory is globally recognized, ensuring dark skies ideal for astronomical observation and scientific tourism. Highlighted Science: The Impact of 16 Years of GTC Operation Since 2009, the Gran Telescopio Canarias has logged over 14,000 hours of observation and produced nearly 450 publications in high-impact journals. Its research spans exoplanet studies — including potassium detection, atmospheres, and rapid transits — neutron stars, quasars, early asteroids, and the exploration of distant galaxies and stellar evolution. The GTC’s queue scheduling tool allows adapting research to atmospheric conditions, maximizing efficiency and quality. While the GTC turns 16 in 2025, the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory will celebrate 40 years soon—stay tuned. Sources:IAC - 10 Years of GTC: Amazing ScienceIAC - GTC and New Instruments Current Scientific Instrumentation of the Gran Telescopio Canarias OSIRIS (Optical System for Imaging and low-Intermediate-Resolution Integrated Spectroscopy) Type: Camera and spectrograph in the visible range (365-1000 nm) Functions: Direct imaging, long-slit spectroscopy, multi-slit, and tunable filters Applications: Galaxy studies, star clusters, detailed spectroscopic analysis Highlight: Versatility and heavy use since GTC’s inception MEGARA (Multi-Espectrograph at GTC for High Resolution Astronomy) Type: Optical integral field and multi-object spectrograph (365–970 nm) Modes: IFU (integral field unit) and MOS (multi-object spectroscopy, up to 100 objects simultaneously) Applications: Galaxy dynamics, star formation, cluster kinematics Advantage: High spectral resolution with unique integral field coverage MIRADAS (Mid-resolution

Tajinaste Bloom: A Unique Natural Spectacle in La Palma and visits to El Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory May and June: The Great Awakening of La Palma's High-Altitude Landscapes High in the mountains of La Palma, as late spring arrives, something extraordinary transforms the landscape: the bloom of the tajinastes, endemic plants that can only be admired on certain islands of the Canary archipelago. Walking among these floral giants while the wind clears the sky and silence envelops the mountains is an experience that blends nature, science, and emotion. And if you lift your gaze at dusk, Europe’s clearest night sky unfolds above you. Traveling to La Palma in May or June means witnessing a double show: tajinastes by day, stars by night. This fusion is the soul of the ecotourism and astrotourism that define the island's character—and it becomes even more special with visits to El Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory, where science and landscape meet in one of the world’s most privileged locations. What Are Tajinastes and Why Are They So Special? Tajinastes belong to the Echium genus, and one of the most spectacular species to bloom in La Palma’s mountain peaks is Echium perezii (formerly Echium wildpretii subsp. trichosiphon). These plants thrive exclusively in high volcanic areas such as the Caldera de Taburiente National Park and the surroundings of the Roque de Los Muchachos. An endemic species is one that is found only in a very specific location. In this case, the tajinastes are botanical gems you won’t find anywhere else on Earth. The island’s geographic isolation, altitude, and unique climate have shaped their exclusive evolution. Some species, like those in La Palma, can reach up to 3 meters tall, forming stunning floral spires that attract bees, birds, and photographers alike. La Caldera de Taburiente National Park

The best astronomical viewpoints on La Palma to enjoy the starry sky Stargazing on La Palma can be enjoyed from almost anywhere. The island, known as the ‘Isla Bonita’, has one of the cleanest and most protected skies in the world; after all, the whole island is a Starlight Reserve. However, if you are looking for an unforgettable experience, the astronomical viewpoints are the most popular spots for sky lovers and amateur astronomy enthusiasts. Many believe that to see the stars in all their splendour you have to go up to the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, but the truth is that all you need to do is get away from the artificial lights and look for a secluded, quiet and dark place. Fortunately, La Palma is full of these magical spots where the Milky Way unfolds with impressive clarity. Today I would like to share some of my favourite astronomical viewpoints on La Palma, where the magic of the universe is experienced at its best (see the rules for the use of an astronomical viewpoint). 1. Mirador  Jable astronomical viewpoint Located in El Paso, the Mirador del Jable is one of the most impressive places for stargazing on La Palma. Its altitude and the absence of light pollution make it the perfect place to see the Milky Way with total clarity. In addition, its easy access makes it ideal for beginners and advanced astronomy enthusiasts alike. From here you can see the new Tajogaite volcano and stunning sunsets. 2. Astronomical viewpoint of Las Ventas Located in the municipality of Breña Baja, the Mirador de Las Ventas is one of the best spots for stargazing without having to go too far into the interior of the island. It is easy to access and its surroundings offer dark skies, ideal for

Scientific Tourism in La Palma: Exploring the Universe and Geology La Palma is a privileged destination for scientific tourism, where the island's impressive geological history is combined with one of the darkest and clearest skies in the world. Recently, a group of physics students from the UK travelled here for a unique academic experience. During their stay, they explored the volcanic geology of the island and delved into the study of the cosmos at the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, one of the most important astronomical centres on the planet. Discovering the geological history of La Palma La Palma is a true natural laboratory of volcanology, where the students have analysed first-hand the geological activity and its impact on the environment. During their visit, they toured key sites that show the volcanic evolution of the island and its scientific importance.   Main geological sites visited Tajogaite Volcano Located on the Cumbre Vieja ridge, the Tajogaite Volcano is the result of the 2021 eruption, one of the most significant eruptions of the 21st century in Spain. Here, the students observed the effects of the eruptive process on the landscape, studying in situ the morphology of the lava flows and the regeneration of the ecosystem. They also visited the Caños de Fuego Volcanic Caves Interpretation Centre and the Cueva de las Palomas, where they explored volcanic tubes formed by the solidification of lava. Fuencaliente Visitor Centre This space offers an educational tour of volcanic activity on the island and its role in the formation of La Palma. Using models and interactive projections, students were able to understand how the eruptions have shaped the landscape and influenced the local ecosystem.   Fuencaliente Salt Flats A clear example of the relationship between geology and local economic activity. The Fuencaliente Salt Flats, located on the