New observatory in West Bengal to boost astrophysics in India: Science Ministry [Video]

A new observatory set up by the S N Bose Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBCBS), an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology, in West Bengal will significantly help in scientific observations of astronomical objects in the country, said the Ministry of Science and Technology on Monday.

The observatory situated atop Panchet Hill in the Garpanchakot area of Purulia district in West Bengal will also help in training students in handling telescopes and recording data, generating national and international collaboration in astronomical research and most importantly, filling in the longitudinal gap.

“The observatory at a height of 600 meters above ground level and the longitude of approximately 86 degrees East, will be a major observatory not only in eastern India, but also in the world,” said the Ministry, noting that it fills the gap between the Arctic Ocean in the north to Antarctica in the south.

Renowned astrophysicist …