Armenia may become regional astronomical center

[Yervant1]

Armenia may become regional astronomical center

 

http://www.tert.am/en/news/2012/09/08/areg-michaelian/

14:36 - 08.09.12

 

 

General Assembly of the International Astronomical Union was held in

Beijing, China, August 20-31. Scientific worker of Armenia's Byurakan

Observatory Areg Mikayelyan said it was a very important event for

astronomy.

 

Presenting a report at the event, Mikayelyan offered to elect Armenia

as a regional chief astronomical center, the one out of eight such in

the world.

 

He said seven applications have been presented from the region which

mainly presented financial offers while Armenia accentuated on the

scientific one.

 

`Our project was the strongest and may be adopted in case of strong

support of the state. They are going to send a letter to our state and

in case of its support they will open the center here,' he said.

 

The astronomer said it is not only scientific but a political issue as

well. `Imagine yourself, Armenia cannot become a regional center in

any sphere and this is a great opportunity for our country, for its

rating,' he said.

 

Overall, $50,000 will be necessary annually for the operation of the center.

`I am convinced Armenia will benefit. With having such center we can

cooperate with the neighboring countries and bring some finances,' he

said.