The book tells the history of the Mannheim Observatory and reflects on the developments up to 2020. It recounts the early period of astronomy in the Electoral Palatinate, the construction of the observatory and the working conditions of astronomers. In addition, we learn about the astronomers’ scientific tasks in connection with various international research projects of their respective eras, the establishment of the observatory, and its later modifications. The book gives an insight into the once rich and unusual inventory of instruments, illustrates their ordering, financing, transporting, set-up and use. It also shows how much the Mannheim Observatory relied on financial grants from the state and how the decline in funding along with the increasing industrialization of Mannheim ultimately triggered the decline of the institute. For the first time, the book also traces the history after 1880 and how the building was converted into a studio tower for Mannheim artists, subsequently offering excellent working conditions. Finally, with the renewed restoration activities from 2016, the Mannheim Observatory receives a new lease on life.weiterlesen