
Virtual Alpine Observatory (VAO)
VAO: Network of European Alpine Observatories with interlinked infrastructure and joint research topics
Motto: Scientific cooperation – joining forces and resources to avoid duplicate work
Goal: Establishment and further development of high-altitude research institutions that address pressing scientific and societal issues
Since 19 April 2012, the “Virtual Alpine Observatory” (VAO) has been operating as a network of European High-Altitude Research Stations based in the Alps and similar mountain ranges, and now includes twelve countries (Armenia, Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Georgia, Italy, Norway, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland). This cross-border and interdisciplinary cooperation has made it possible to address in great depth scientific problems relating to the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and cryosphere systems, and also the possible impact of environmental influences on health.