Astronomical observatories are specialized facilities designed for observing celestial objects and phenomena. They typically house telescopes and other instruments that allow astronomers to study stars, planets, galaxies, and other cosmic entities. Observatories can be found on Earth or in space, with each location offering unique advantages for observation. Many observatories are equipped with advanced technology, such as radio telescopes and spectrometers, to gather data across different wavelengths of light. Some well-known observatories include the Hubble Space Telescope and the Mauna Kea Observatories in Hawaii, which contribute significantly to our understanding of the universe.