Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics

Project idea

The project objective was to create a modern, scientific, educational and entertainment center, which everyone can visit to learn more about such an interesting science as astronomy.

Project description

The Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics is located at an altitude of 2030 m above sea level.
Estimated place for the center of astronomy and astrophysics - the top of the mountain range Aibga Rosa Peak, Sochi. It is calculated that the already existing transport infrastructure and the large tourist flow of Sochi will make the center a visited place.
The composition of the building is formed by cylindrical volumes, symbolizing the individual planets of the solar system.
In one of the cylinders, a library with bookshelves on two floors was designed, where books on astronomy, written over the last two thousand years of the existence of this ancient science, are stored. Above the library is the third level is an observatory. Visitors can get there by a spiral staircase, and look at the stars through a telescope.
In other cylinders there are a planetarium, classrooms, ancillary facilities and a gift shop.
The project also provides a cafe where you can try food in tubes designed for astronauts during space flights.
A peculiar attraction is the glass ball inside the Center, which allows you to look into the abyss, since the rectangular volume of the building hangs over the rocky edge of the console.

Technical information

Since the center of astronomy is located in the mountains, where the temperature is low, the insulation thickness in the wall structure was increased to 200 mm. Reinforced concrete has become the main structural material of the building, since it is subjected to heavy loads.
Foundation - pile, on a solid rock base. Tape glazing on the perimeter was arranged in order to open the breathtaking panorama of the mountains. In order to avoid the blinding sunlight, the windows have sun louvres.

Co-authors

Timofeev A.V .; Steblina O.Y.; Nelen A.S .; Morgachev A.V.