observatory

 
Pronunciation: /əbˈzəːvət(ə)ri/

noun (plural observatories)

  • a room or building housing an astronomical telescope or other scientific equipment for the study of natural phenomena.
  • a position or building that gives an extensive view.

Origin:

late 17th century; from modern Latin observatorium, from Latin observat- 'watched', from the verb observare (see observe)