Project history
From 2015 to 2027
Twelve years from idea to opening
The project began as a student request, and it took twelve years to carry it from the first idea to opening to the public.
The first ideas take shape.
An initial request to install a dome at Toulouse III University, and first discussions about siting it on the Maison des Étudiants et des Personnels.
Credit: Pulsar Observatories
The project properly begins.
First presentation to a committee of Toulouse III Paul Sabatier University, followed by the call for tenders for the building in September.
Credit: Observatoire Jocelyn Bell de Toulouse, UPS in Space
Credit: Observatoire Jocelyn Bell de Toulouse, UPS in Space
A decisive first step.
The observatory’s primary purpose shifts as it opens to school groups. A first grant from the science and engineering faculty, a first crowdfunding campaign over the summer, and a planning application in September.
Credit: UPS in Space
The project turns professional.
Internal reform of the association and the first substantial grants, from the Occitanie region and the Catalyses foundation. The instruments are settled, first purchases committed, the dome plans finalised and the observatory’s governance defined.
Credit: UPS in Space
The first instrument purchases.
A first direct university grant, acquisition of the secondary instruments and first equipment tests. A second crowdfunding campaign in October and November, and the name is chosen: Jocelyn Bell Observatory in Toulouse.
Credit: Observatoire Jocelyn Bell de Toulouse, UPS in Space
The first operational phases.
First training courses, first projects run with the observatory, and the instruments are named.
Credit: UPS in Space
The observatory takes shape.
The dome is set in place on 2 May on top of the U5-MEP building: the observatory physically exists.
Credit: Observatoire Jocelyn Bell de Toulouse, UPS in Space
The dream becomes real.
The main telescope is delivered, then all the instrumentation is installed under the dome in March. The first tests begin. Official inauguration on Thursday 11 December, with the partners.
Credit: Observatoire Jocelyn Bell de Toulouse, UPS in Space
Credit: Observatoire Jocelyn Bell de Toulouse, UPS in Space
The observatory comes to life.
Commissioning, testing and improvements throughout the year. Open day on 16 April, with Jocelyn Bell in attendance.
Credit: Observatoire Jocelyn Bell de Toulouse, UPS in Space
The observatory is ready to welcome you.
Opening to the public on 1 January: observing sessions, school and group visits, and slots open to scientific projects.
Credit: Observatoire Jocelyn Bell de Toulouse, UPS in Space
Credit: Observatoire Jocelyn Bell de Toulouse, UPS in Space
