An Astronomical Observation Center, which will allow the enjoyment of unique experiences from the clarity of the skies of the Puna Jujeña, is being promoted in the western region of the province, with a view to positioning a new tourist attraction in the area, which also links a kind of corridor between the Argentine and Chilean north.
The space will have an observation dome with a telescope and other necessary equipment to develop, in addition, activities for educational purposes and scientific dissemination, all in the surroundings of the town of Susques, which will act as host, located at the crossroads of the routes Nationals 52 and 40, about 60 kilometers from the visited Salinas Grandes.
The initiative is financed through the “Federal Innovation Projects” call from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, and promoted by the Jujuy Science, Technology and Innovation Agency with the participation of a team from the Cordovan Institute of Theoretical Astronomy and Experimental (IATE – UNC/Conicet).
“We have been working with the researchers, with the original communities of Susques and with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Jujuy for the installation of the center in the town, given that the area has great benefits for astronomical observation,” Miriam Serrano told Télam. , director of the Jujuy Science and Technology Agency.
He added that progress has already been made in the acquisition of equipment, such as two high-tech telescopes and other instruments necessary for the operation of the space and to offer a comprehensive experience regarding the diversity of recreational-scientific activities that can be promoted.
Continuing, he pondered that the project integrates training on astronomy for local residents, mainly young people who, in addition to working in the management of the center, can find an opportunity for professional development in the study of the universe.
Regarding the work, Serrano pointed out that the dome to be installed is currently being designed and that the entire construction is designed with materials from the area and respecting the natural landscape.
“Susques has the three fundamental conditions to carry out observation activities: it has a dry climate, it is at altitude and it has a large percentage of clear nights,” explained Diego García Lambas, from IATE and scientific manager of the project.
Regarding the idea of promoting a regional astro-tourism corridor, he told Télam that there are several developments that are gaining momentum in the northwest of the country, such as in Salta, where he is leading another important initiative financed by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.
In addition, after crossing the border through the Jama Pass, on the Chilean side there are also highly exploited destinations through this growing segment of sustainable tourism, such as San Pedro de Atacama.
“There are many people from different parts of the world who come to the Atacama just for astrotourism, so it is very likely that they decide to continue on their way to Susques, which is quite close by the Jama route, and take advantage of enjoying the other great attractions of the north of Jujuy”, García Lambas completed when referring to the potentiality of the astronomical center in momentum.
After pondering that work is being carried out meticulously in the design of the space, he mentioned that among the equipment to be arranged there will be a solar telescope, which will not only attract visitors to enjoy observation activities at night but also during the day.
Source: Ambito
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