- a place or building equipped and used for making observations of astronomical, meteorological, or other natural phenomena, especially a place equipped with a powerful telescope for observing the planets and stars.
- an institution that controls or carries on the work of such a place.
- a place or structure that provides an extensive view; lookout.
- an institution or building specially designed and equipped for observing meteorological and astronomical phenomena
- any building or structure providing an extensive view of its surroundings
