Binh DinhComing to the Center for Scientific Discovery and Innovation in Quy Nhon, visitors will be able to see the universe through the largest optical glass in the country.
Visitors view images of galaxies through optical telescopes. Image: Thao Chi
Through the Plane wave CDK600 optical glass, each tiny star shines, sparkling halos of light appear. The galaxy cluster rotates in mysterious shapes. The moon is huge with each crater and crack displayed vividly.
Plane wave CDK600 is the largest and most modern telescope in Vietnam with a diameter of 600 mm, selected by experts of the World Federation of Astrophysical Societies.
Watching the universe at night through a telescope is an experiential activity of the Center for Scientific Discovery and Innovation in Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh province, held from March 16. The program combines entertainment, education and science, expected to arouse children's passion for science and contribute to diversifying local tourism products.
At the beginning of the tour, visitors seem to be lost in another world with the sparkling, dancing lights of the "Cosmic Gate" model. The surrounding space also has outdoor game models to stimulate imagination and enjoy the melodious sound of the drum system.
Space gate model. Image: Thao Chi
Through the gate, visitors have two itinerary options. First, explore the main building with science shows, 3D astronomy movies and Solar System exhibitions. On the second journey, visitors will learn about the history of astronomy through ancient tools and the ancient space of the Observatory. From there, visitors better understand the journey of scientists exploring the universe.
At the Observatory, visitors also have the opportunity to admire the modern advanced technology being used for space research, including the country's largest telescope and 10 popular telescopes. This experience helps visitors feel humanity's scientific progress and humanity's persistent passion for exploring the universe.
Children are fascinated by vivid stories about the history of astronomy from ancient times to modern times. Image: Thao Chi
Ms. Tran Thien Thanh, a tourist from Quang Ngai, said she could see the giant moon with clear details of mountains and holes, "it felt like touching the moon". Vo Thanh Dan, a student in Quy Nhon City, shared that the tour "inspired me and my friends to learn about astronomy as well as physics and natural science."
According to Mr. Nguyen Huu Ha, Deputy Director of Binh Dinh Department of Science and Technology and Director of the Center for Scientific Discovery and Innovation, implementing a space viewing tour meets the needs of many nighttime tourists, opening Maximize free time to explore the center, bringing an interesting experience to visitors.
"Currently the tour is only open every Saturday night and serves a maximum of 200 guests per night, but we are considering increasing the number of service sessions if conditions allow," Mr. Ha said.
Ticket prices for night tours remain the same as during the day, 120.000 VND/person at the main building and 150.000 VND/person at the Observatory (excluding incentives). Visitors can buy tickets directly at the counter or reserve online via the official website. Particularly, groups of 30 guests or more need to register in advance via the Center's switchboard.
Thao Chi
