“The satellite observatory No. 1112, built within the framework of the Eastern bloc’s space research program, Interprogram, is located in the outskirts of Szombathely. The complex geometry of the building follows from the precise design task. The core contains the instruments located on an independent, vibration-free pyramidal plateau. These are surrounded by a slab that ensures the movement of the workers, supported by legs of the same height but independent of the instrument platform. The structure of the sliding roof also relies on these. A protected connection between the instruments and the observatory built in the second phase, around 1972–1973, is ensured by a tunnel-like staircase corridor. Elemér Zalotay wanted to exhibit the plans of his previous works, especially his famed Ribbon House idea, in the squared recesses formed on the concrete legs.”

Written by Dániel Kovács, Hungarian Museum of Architecture and Monuments Protection Documentation Center

In use. 

The facility was supplemented with an observatory in Phase II of the project, between 1972 and 1973. The building retains its original condition and is still functional today (last updated on February 17, 2026).