Deep-sky astrophotography image

Our Location

A carefully chosen location beneath the dark skies of southern Spain

PixelSkiesAstro is situated approximately 4 km from Castilléjar, in the province of Granada, Andalucía, southern Spain, within the spectacular Granada UNESCO Global Geopark.

Located approximately 850 metres above sea level, our remote observatory hosting facility benefits from a rural setting, minimal nearby light pollution and the natural shelter of the surrounding mountain landscape.

Light-pollution map around Castilléjar

Why We Chose This Location

When selecting our site, we looked beyond altitude alone. While higher elevations can offer certain astronomical advantages, they can also bring greater exposure to strong winds, snow, and challenging winter access.

At approximately 850 metres, we have found an excellent balance between elevation, observing conditions and year-round accessibility.

Our location generally remains below the more persistent winter snow conditions experienced in the surrounding higher mountains. Although we occasionally experience adverse weather and very rarely snow, we are far less likely to face prolonged periods of adverse weather.

The surrounding mountains also provide a degree of natural protection from exposed weather conditions, helping make this location particularly suitable for the long-term operation of valuable astronomical equipment.

Local map around Castilléjar

The Advantage of Living On-Site

Unlike facilities that rely entirely on remote monitoring or staff travelling to the observatory, our team lives on-site.

This means we are close at hand when equipment requires attention, whether it's checking a telescope, resolving a connection issue, inspecting a mount, or providing practical assistance.

For our customers, this provides something equally important as dark skies: the reassurance of knowing that experienced astrophotographers are physically present to look after their equipment.

UNESCO Geopark & Starlight Recognition

PixelSkiesAstro is located within the Granada UNESCO Global Geopark, an internationally recognised landscape celebrated for its exceptional geological and natural heritage.

The wider Geopark has also earned international Starlight recognition for its night skies, including its designation as a Starlight Tourist Destination and the recognition of its darkest areas as a Starlight Reserve.

These distinctions highlights the astronomical potential of the region .

For PixelSkiesAstro, this remarkable setting combines the natural beauty of southern Spain with an environment ideally suited to remote astrophotography.

Our philosophy is simple: excellent skies, carefully chosen surroundings and dependable on-site support — all working together to help our customers make the most of their imaging time.

Snow-capped mountains and surrounding landscape in Granada
Granada UNESCO Global Geopark information graphic