Thailand's largest observatory opened in Chiang Mai
As of February 2020, Thailand has the largest observatory in Chiang Mai. Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, after whom the park is named, officially opened on February 1.
Thailand was chosen as the Center for Astronomy Education in Southeast Asia by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) because Thailand now possesses the most advanced technology and innovations for astronomy. The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (Narit) is also located here.
The Astro Park was built on 54 rai of land, located in Mae Rim's Don Kaew sub-district. It contains office buildings, an astronomy museum and a planetarium about 17 meters in diameter culminating in an observatory and research building.
It is also possible to develop further in the field of astronomy and astrophysics through science, technologies and innovation. Due to its layout, Thailand can develop as a leading nation for research in astronomy. To achieve this important goal, according to Sarun Posayachinda, director of this Astropark, cooperation with other observatories in the country will be necessary. These are located in Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Chachoengsao, Phitsanulok and Songkhla.
For interested visitors, the entrance fee is 50 Baht.
Info: www.narit.or.th/index.php/astropark
Source: der Farang, ea
Given the air pollution, there won't be much to observe for a few months a year, I'm afraid….
Perhaps, but it will not be the case that something more will be done about the fires.
Have a hard head because it will be up to you to talk and consult as it has been going for years and still nothing comes out.
Or they come up with stupid so-called solutions like last year by placing water cannons on the Nawarat bridge when a high-ranking person from Bangkok comes to watch.
Perhaps this is a good reason to properly tackle that annual air pollution in February and March with a subsidy.
A generally well-informed website reported that Thai Health Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul already wants to use the observatories to observe “Ai Farrang” for their hygienic condition and more specifically for corona contamination.
According to the minister, the powerful telescopes of the Thai observatories are ideally suited for this.
The website in question has unfortunately been removed in the meantime so that we cannot offer you a link. For which we sincerely apologise.