Astronomical Observatory of the Autonomous Italian region of Val d'aosta was opened in 2003, the year in Saint-Barthelemy at a height of 1675 m above sea level. This location was chosen because of the low level of air pollution and at least 240 quiet nights per year, suitable for observing the sky. Today the Observatory is a unique institution in terms of its functions and tools used. Equipment with the latest technology is well suited for conducting research at the highest level. It also is involved in various educational programmes for teachers of local schools and students. The composition of the Observatory includes meteorological centre, physical laboratory, computer class. It implements a training program consisting of two exhibitions and a series of illustrated panels depicting the solar system.

In 2008, the year the astronomical Observatory was equipped with a planetarium, designed for conducting educational conferences, educational tours and other activities in the field of astronomy. The planetarium consists of academic buildings with a dome with a diameter of 10 meters, which allows you to watch all celestial bodies – stars, planets, nebulae and galaxies. Here it is possible to reproduce the movement of the celestial sphere, to better understand the essence of the process of the Earth's rotation, or to observe the sky at different periods and in different places. Only in the screening room of the planetarium can accommodate 67 people. Every year in September is a colorful festival "Star party", within which is arranged a series of thematic conferences, special events and observing sessions at the night sky.