South African Astronomical Observatory

The South African Astronomical Observatory, or SAAO, is South Africa's leading astronomy research institute and the national centre for optical and infrared astronomy, founded in 1820. Its primary role is fundamental research in astronomy and astrophysics, achieved by providing a world-class facility to scientists, and it also promotes astronomy across southern Africa through the sharing of discoveries and through outreach. It is a facility of the National Research Foundation, which operates under the South African Department of Science and Innovation. The SAAO has its headquarters in the Cape Town suburb of Observatory and a dedicated observing station outside Sutherland in the Northern Cape, home to several working telescopes including the Southern African Large Telescope, the largest optical telescope in the southern hemisphere.