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E-mail China.org.cn, July 12, 2024
Shou Xiaoli:
One last question.
CRNTT:
We understand that Qinghai is building the world-class Lenghu Astronomical Observation Base. What advantages does Lenghu have in becoming a world-class astronomical observation base? What is the current status of the base's construction? Additionally, what can we expect once the base is completed? Thank you.
Wu Xiaojun:
I'll answer this question. Lenghu town in Mangya city, Haixi prefecture, in Qinghai's Qaidam Basin, is the most Mars-like place on Earth. There is a mountain there called Saishiteng Mountain, which stands over 4,200 meters high. Scientists say this area is cool, dry, and clean year-round, with no light pollution. It enjoys clear nights 70% of the time, providing over 300 days annually suitable for astronomical observation. This makes it the best location for astronomical observation in the Eastern Hemisphere. Traditionally, the best astronomical observation sites have been in the Western Hemisphere. The establishment of Lenghu town fills this gap, creating a comprehensive global network for time-domain and spatial-domain astronomical observations.
Currently, the Lenghu Astronomical Observation Base has attracted over 10 research institutions and universities, including the National Astronomical Observatories, Purple Mountain Observatory, Tsinghua University, Peking University, and the University of Science and Technology of China, gathering scientific teams and large scientific facilities. Currently, 43 telescopes of various types have been introduced, including the well-known Micius Survey Telescope and three other telescopes, which have officially begun scientific observations. They have discovered over 200 main-belt asteroids and four near-Earth asteroids, achieving groundbreaking scientific results. Additionally, several large-diameter telescopes are being introduced and are currently under construction.
Regarding expectations, we believe the Lenghu Astronomical Observation Base will become an important international astronomical observation site and a significant platform for scientific exchange and cooperation between China and other countries. Furthermore, it will become a must-visit destination for astronomy enthusiasts and tourists. Moving forward, we will maintain a global perspective, encourage open cooperation, and adopt a future-oriented approach. Our goals include building the astronomical town, sharing compelling science stories, and innovating industry models. By promoting the integration of astronomical observation, ecological tourism, and green computing power, we aim to make Lenghu town a world-class astronomical observation base and an international ecological tourism destination.
Here, I would like to invite our media friends and people from all over the country to visit Lenghu and observe the brightest and most beautiful stars in the night sky. Thank you!
Shou Xiaoli:
Thank you, Governor Wu Xiaojun, and thank you to all the speakers and reporters for participating. This concludes today's press conference.
Translated and edited by Liu Sitong, Huang Shan, Lin Liyao, Zhou Jing, Yan Bin, Li Xiao, Zhang Rui, Wang Yanfang, Yan Xiaoqing, Li Huiru, Wang Mengru, Wang Yiming, Xiang Bin, Yuan Fang, David Ball, Rochelle Beiersdorfer, and Jay Birbeck. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.
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