Space Pole

Space Pole in Uccle is a scientific complex on the southern edge of Brussels where three Belgian research institutions dedicated to astronomy, meteorology and atmospheric physics share a single site. It is a place where a history reaching back to the late 19th century meets present-day research into climate and outer space, and it also houses one of the region's more interesting planetariums.

What institutions make up Space Pole?

The complex brings together the Royal Observatory of Belgium, the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium, and the Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy. Each institute pursues its own research programme, but they operate side by side on shared grounds in Uccle, together forming one of Belgium's most important centres for Earth and space sciences.

Why is the complex located in Uccle?

The Royal Observatory of Belgium was founded in January 1883 on the initiative of Adolphe Quetelet, originally in the Brussels municipality of Saint-Josse. In 1889 the Observatory relocated to Uccle, where it has remained ever since. The move at the turn of the 20th century was driven by the need to distance observation instruments from the noise and lights of central Brussels.

When did the aeronomy institute join the site?

The Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy was created much later, on 25 November 1964. It was established right next to the already existing Observatory and Meteorological Institute, completing the trio of institutions that has made up Space Pole ever since. This institute focuses on studying the upper layers of the atmosphere and the influence of the Sun on Earth.

Can visitors tour Space Pole?

Yes — the site includes a Planetarium, open to the public as part of its educational offerings. In addition, Open Days are organised every year, during which the institutions open their laboratories and instruments to a wider audience. It is a chance to see up close the equipment scientists use in their daily work and to learn more about ongoing research.

What is the purpose of these institutions?

The three institutes that make up Space Pole collaborate within international scientific frameworks. Their shared goal is to study planet Earth and its environment, understand how the Sun influences processes on Earth, and carry out observations of the sky and the cosmos. Work carried out in Uccle therefore combines classical astronomy with modern climate and atmospheric research.

What is the historical significance of this site?

Space Pole stands out for its long scientific continuity — the Royal Observatory of Belgium marks its 200th anniversary in 2026, counting from the origins of the institution it descends from. This anniversary highlights just how long a research tradition this complex represents, even though it has physically operated at its current Uccle location only since 1889.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Space Pole located? In Uccle, on the southern side of Brussels, at the site where the Royal Observatory of Belgium has operated since 1889.

How many institutions make up Space Pole? Three: the Royal Observatory of Belgium, the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium, and the Royal Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy.

Is Space Pole open to visitors? Yes, it houses a Planetarium, and Open Days are held once a year giving access to laboratories and scientific instruments.

When was the Institute for Space Aeronomy founded? On 25 November 1964, as the third institution to join the already existing Observatory and Meteorological Institute.