The Observatory Allocated for a Music Festival and Camping: NGO Raises Alarm

Recently, we were alarmed to learn that the Paris Herouni Observatory and its adjacent area have been allocated to a company for several years, which is organizing an electronic music festival and camping on September 10-12. This was reported by the “Karahunj Armenian Studies Center” NGO.

“The magnificent instrument is being presented by them as an ‘abandoned observatory,’ a ‘historical monument,’ and so on. The Herouni Observatory is subject to re-equipment and proper utilization, as confirmed by several foreign experts. However, the ‘National Body for Standardization and Metrology’ LLC, which owns the instrument, is continuously obstructing this process and, for some reason, is not interested in allowing it to function in its intended capacity, to the glory of the scientific thought of the Armenian nation and for the benefit of Armenia.”

The ‘National Body for Standardization and Metrology’ LLC, which belongs to the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, despite receiving 45 million drams annually from the state for the maintenance of the instrument, not only fails to spend this money on its upkeep (the instrument remains unguarded and is being plundered), but also rents out the observatory as a platform for musical groups, film shooting, and a place for roller skating.

As a result of the aforementioned actions, the instrument has sustained physical damage, further impairing the precise working conditions of its antenna while simultaneously degrading it morally. According to experts, the observatory should be restored in accordance with its full potential and serve its purposes in scientific, military, and other fields where its exceptional operability has been proven. If utilized as an observatory, this unique instrument in the world could generate significantly greater revenue and benefits, as well as other recognition for our Homeland.

In the coming days, the “Karahunj Armenian Studies Center” NGO will present a specific plan of practical steps. We kindly ask you to share this post to inform the public as widely as possible,” the NGO writes.