Join us on a visual journey through our team’s inspiring visit to Armenia's iconic telescopes
Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory: A Pioneering Legacy of Space Exploration – A Private Tour Led by its Head Unveils Impressive Stories
Our trip to the Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory was a fascinating journey into both the cosmos and history. Located on the slopes of Mount Aragats, this observatory is one of the premier scientific institutions in Armenia.
According to legend, its massive, 2.6-meter telescope mirror was initially a gift from Germany to Italy. However, it never reached its intended destination, thwarted by the chaos of World War II. Subsequently, the Soviet Union came into possession of the mirror, and it ultimately made its way to Armenia, adding a profound layer of history to its scientific use.
This piece of history adds a unique dimension to the observatory, blending scientific achievement with historical narratives.
The Orgov Radio-Optical Telescope, envisioned by Paris Herouni and approved by Sergei Korolev, initiated its construction in 1964. Between 1981 and 1985, on Mount Aragats’ slopes, a pit was crafted and fitted with 3,600 flat metal panels to create a sophisticated mirror, essential for detecting radio waves in the millimeter and sub-millimeter ranges.
Each aluminum alloy panel of the telescope was hand-molded and precision-finished to 70 microns, showcasing the era’s innovation and technical demands. From 1986 to 1990, the telescope was operational, making critical observations including the explosion of a red giant in Gemini.
Echoes from the Past: Heruni Radio-Optical Telescope Exploring the Abandoned Soviet-Era Marvel
Once a symbol of Soviet astronomical ambition, this abandoned telescope offers a poignant reminder of a bygone era. Our visit to this relic allowed the team to reflect on the transient nature of human endeavors contrasted against the timeless pursuit of knowledge.
Scaling new heights together, with the world at our feet and the cosmos in our sights.
Reflecting on our journey, the team came away with not only a deeper bond but a renewed appreciation for the pioneers of science. The echoes of the past resonated deeply, inspiring us to carry forward the legacy of curiosity and discovery.
