Namwon-si 'Manhaengsan Astronomy Experience Center' Renovated... Opening on the 22nd

Published 19 Oct.2022 16:27(KST)

[Namwon=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Jeong Young-kwon] The Manhaengsan Astronomical Experience Center in Haneulbyeol Village, Daesang-ri, Sandong-myeon, Namwon-si, Jeonbuk, is entering full-scale operation after refurbishing its aging facilities.

According to the city on the 19th, the Manhaengsan Astronomical Experience Center, built in 2007 as part of the mountain village comprehensive development project, had inconveniences for users due to aging facilities. However, it was selected for the Jeonbuk Province Village Community Facility Renovation Support Project and has been refurbished.

The reopening ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. on the 22nd at the Manhaengsan Astronomical Experience Center, hosted by the Sangsin Village Saemaeul Association and supported by the Sandong-myeon Administrative Welfare Center and the Jeonbuk Branch of the Korea Amateur Astronomy Association. On that day, there will be celestial observation (sun) and facility tours.

The Manhaengsan Astronomical Experience Center has one first-class astronomy guide and about ten third-class astronomy guides, all composed of village residents.

There are a total of 13 astronomical observation telescopes, including 10 practice telescopes that teachers and students can assemble, 2 intermediate observation telescopes, and 1 advanced observation telescope. Accommodation facilities are also available.

The astronomical experience center provides education on how to use (operate) astronomical telescopes, which is difficult to conduct in school education. Visitors can operate the telescopes and find celestial bodies. Additionally, through forest experiences and wildflower exploration in a pristine natural environment, ecological sensitivity education is offered to help visitors realize the importance of nurturing and protecting forests amid the climate crisis.

Sangsin Village, where the Manhaengsan Astronomical Experience Center is located, is a typical mountain village surrounded by mountains on all sides. It has optimal conditions for celestial observation at night due to the absence of lights. The village also features the birthplace of National Intangible Cultural Property holder Ahn Suk-sun and Guijeongsa Temple, a Baekje-era temple with a history of 1,500 years.

Kim Jae-yoon, head of Sangsin Village, and Jang Hyun-geun, teacher (Chairman of the Korean Ethnic Culture Community Support Association, former director of the Korea Amateur Astronomy Association), said, “This is the best experiential learning site for nurturing the inquiry skills and leadership of gifted students nationwide. Surrounded by Cheonhwangbong Peak, this place offers a natural environment where the starry night sky creates unforgettable memories for everyone.”