Langkawi National Observatory Provides Space Studies Facility

LANGKAWI, Feb 3 (Bernama) -- The Langkawi National Observatory, launched on Friday, provides an excellent venue for local and foreign scientists to carry out space research.

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili said the observatory is equipped with the country's first robotic telescopes, each for stellar and solar observatories.

"The telescopes can be controlled remotely via the Internet, allowing a detailed collection of data and information," he told reporters after launching the observatory in Bukit Malut, here.

Present were his deputy Datuk Fadillah Yusof and National Space Agency director-general Dr Mustafa Din Subari.

The RM8 million facility proved the government's commitment in strengthening the country's capability in the field of science and technology, he said.

"Malaysia will move forward towards a developed nation status with the setting up of key infrastructure like the Langkawi National Observatory, which contributes to a much deeper research into space," he said.

Ongkili said the facility could also be utilised by students nationwide as a place for study trips.

-- BERNAMA

AL :-

Hopefully the project will not become another 'White Elephant' Project. But its good to have this Observatory as one of the tourist attraction.