March 28–31, 2025
The ACEBaltic Astronomy Weekend brings together astronomers, researchers, and science enthusiasts from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. From March 28 to 31, 2025, we will explore significant astronomical institutions, foster international collaboration, and celebrate astronomical heritage and research in the Baltic region.
Want to join us?
Register at this link: https://forms.gle/W5ZkiFuFvYi6EtF68
> You can participate in the activities in each country.
> Or join us for the full itinerary. A limited number of bus and accommodation spots are available until capacity is reached.
Program Overview
Friday, March 28 – Estonia
11:30: Tartu Observatory (Tõravere)
- Exhibition event: AstrónomAs – showcasing the work of female astronomers from Spain, Lithuania, and Estonia.
- Concert by the Observatory’s band
- Special guests, including Josefina Ling Ling (curator of the exhibition), representatives from the Spanish Embassy, astronomers from Vilnius University, and esteemed Estonian scientists.
- Guided exhibition tour by Josefina Ling Ling, Maria Benito and Edita Stonkutė
- Wine reception and appetizers.
15:30: Tartu Old Observatory
- Guided tour (entry fees apply for general public, free for UT employees).
Saturday, March 29 – Estonia → Latvia → Lithuania
- 10:00 Bus departure from Tartu (Vanemuine theater).
- Stop at Tartu Observatory to pick up additional passengers.
- 14:30 Arrival at Baldone Observatory (Latvia):
- Guided tour by Ilgmārs Eglītis (Head of the Observatory) and Kristers Nagainis (University of Latvia)
- Lunch at the observatory.
- 17:00 Evening journey to Molėtai Observatory (Lithuania).
- Dinner and overnight stay at Molėtai Observatory.
Sunday, March 30 – Lithuania
10:00: Lithuanian Museum of Ethnocosmology
Visit to the Lithuanian Museum of Ethnocosmology (registration needed, consult with the organization)
14:00: Molėtai Astronomical Observatory
Register directly on the Moletai Observatory website to participate in this activity. It is free of charge: https://observatorija.tfai.vu.lt/400/whatdata.php?datos=2025-03-30_14:00-080-T-TT&rmm=43
- Inauguration of the “One billion eyes for one billion stars” Exhibition and event to say goodbye to ESA’s Gaia spacecraft.
- “The Gaia revolution”, talk by Vidas Dobrovolskas
- Guided tour of the observatory (in English, Lithuanian and Spanish)
- Evening picnic dinner at the observatory.
- Overnight stay at the observatory.
Monday, March 31 – Return Trip
- Morning departure from Molėtai Observatory.
- Transport to Vilnius for attendees returning to Tartu.
- 7:05 AM train from Vilnius to Tartu (arrival at 15:07)
Why Join Us?
This event is a unique opportunity to explore astronomical research and heritage across the Baltic region while engaging with leading scientists and institutions. Whether you’re an astronomer, a student, or simply an enthusiast, the ACEBaltic Astronomy Weekend promises inspiring discussions, cultural exchanges, and unforgettable experiences.
Stay tuned for more updates! Follow us on social media and contact us for any inquiries regarding participation and logistics.