A new astronomical observatory has been established in Besely, Madagascar, marking a significant milestone for the country's scientific community. Located 40km from Mahajanga, the observatory is equipped with a 35cm diameter computer-controlled telescope, accessible to everyone, and situated within the Écoles du Monde association's premises. This development enables astronomical research and photography to be conducted from Madagascar, a first for the country.
The observatory's installation is the result of a collaborative project between Haikintana Astronomie, Écoles du Monde, and other organizations, including the French Astronomical Society. The site was chosen for its minimal light pollution, dry climate, and reliable internet connection. Besely's Écoles du Monde, a rural school established 25 years ago, provided the necessary infrastructure, including a solar park for electricity generation.
The observatory's director, Andoninaina Rajaonarivelo, highlights the potential for astrotourism development, citing examples from Chile and Nepal. To facilitate this, the Astro Club Lab, named Orion, has been created to organize workshops and training sessions for guides and enthusiasts. Rajaonarivelo emphasizes that the observatory will allow for research on asteroids, detection of stellar occultations, and photometry, contributing to a better understanding of the universe.
Initial images captured by the telescope include a stellar cluster and the Centaurus A galaxy, 12.4 million light-years away from Earth. The observatory's capabilities will enable users to conduct research and capture images with relative ease, unlike larger telescopes abroad that require extensive procedures and high usage fees.
The University of Antananarivo already offers a Master's program in astrophysics, and associations like Haikintana and MASS promote astronomy and astrophotography among enthusiasts. The observatory's telescope will be available for use by trained individuals, including those from abroad, after a pilot training program.
Astrotourism is seen as a promising sector for Madagascar, with Rajaonarivelo and his team already in discussions with local tour guides to develop astronomy-related tourism activities. The observatory's launch marks a new era for scientific research and exploration in the country.
The project, initiated in 2019, demonstrates the potential for collaboration between local and international organizations to advance scientific knowledge and promote tourism in Madagascar. With its unique location and resources, the Besely observatory is poised to make significant contributions to the field of astronomy.
Key points
- The observatory's establishment enables astronomical research and photography to be conducted from Madagascar for the first time.
- The project aims to develop astrotourism in Madagascar, following examples from Chile and Nepal.
- The observatory's telescope is accessible to users worldwide, offering a unique opportunity for research and exploration.
