Observatories are specialized facilities used for observing and studying celestial objects and phenomena in space. These facilities are equipped with telescopes and other instruments that allow researchers to collect data and conduct scientific investigations. Observatories can be ground-based or space-based, depending on their location and purpose. Ground-based observatories are typically located on mountaintops or in remote areas to minimize light pollution and atmospheric interference. These observatories may focus on a specific wavelength of light, such as optical, infrared, or radio waves, to study different aspects of the universe. Space-based observatories are located in orbit around Earth or beyond, allowing them to avoid the distorting effects of Earth's atmosphere. These observatories have a broader range of capabilities and can observe celestial objects in wavelengths that are blocked by Earth's atmosphere, such as ultraviolet or X-rays. Overall, observatories play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of the universe and have contributed significantly to discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics.