Four solaire d'Odeillo Guide
Harness the Sun: Explore the Odeillo Solar Furnace Guide
The Four Solaire d'Odeillo, or Odeillo Solar Furnace, is a remarkable scientific facility and a fascinating tourist attraction located in Font-Romeu-Odeillo-Via, in the French Pyrenees. This giant solar furnace uses a vast array of mirrors to concentrate sunlight, generating extremely high temperatures for scientific research and experimentation. It's a testament to human ingenuity and a captivating experience for visitors of all ages. Construction of the Odeillo Solar Furnace began in 1962 and was completed in 1969. The high altitude and clear skies of the Pyrenees provide ideal conditions for harnessing solar energy. The furnace consists of a field of heliostats (movable mirrors) that track the sun and reflect its rays onto a large parabolic mirror. This mirror then focuses the concentrated sunlight onto a target area, creating temperatures of up to 3,500 degrees Celsius. The facility has been used for a wide range of research, including materials science, aerospace engineering, and energy production. Visitors can take guided tours of the Odeillo Solar Furnace to learn about its history, technology, and scientific applications. The tour includes a visit to the heliostat field, the parabolic mirror, and the experimental areas. You can witness demonstrations of the furnace's power and learn about the cutting-edge research being conducted there. The site also features an exhibition space with interactive displays and informative panels. While in the area, explore the local cuisine, which features hearty mountain dishes like tartiflette (potatoes, bacon, and Reblochon cheese) and various charcuterie.
Transportation
The easiest way to reach the Four Solaire d'Odeillo is by car. There is parking available on site. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from Font-Romeu to Odeillo.