A World-class Observatory in Bhutan

Here's an idea. High-altitude locations are ideal for setting up scientific observatories, as they have the best visibility for optical astronomy as well as other benefits. There is a growing trend of building observatories in ever-increasing altitudes. New observatories built in the 21st century are often located above 4500m, often in exotic, hard-to-reach locations.

While construction and access to these facilities is often a major burden, "the scientific benefits of these sites outweigh the numerous logistical and physiological challenges which must be overcome during the construction and operation of observatories in remote mountain locations, even in desert, polar, and tropical island sites which magnify the challenges but confer additional observational advantages" (List of highest astronomical observatories).

It's time to take advantage of Bhutan's extreme location. Bhutan can collaborate with a world-class university to become the destination for a high-altitude observatory. In addition to the obvious economic and employment benefits, it can also serve as a launch pad for Bhutan's future scientists.

Let's reach for the stars.

The Indian Astronomical Observatory in Ladakh (4500 m)