Constructing the astronomical observatory at Tay Nguyen University, Vietnam

Abstract

We are planning to build an observatory that includes a 40 cm optical telescope at Tay Nguyen University (TNU), Daklak Province, Vietnam. In this paper, we report the initial activities of our project. First, to prepare for the scientific exploitation of the observatory, we organized the observational nights for students at the International Center for Interdisciplinary Science and Education, Qui Nhon in April 2017 and at the Nha Trang Observatory, Nha Trang in November 2018. These activities aim to provide students with the skills of astronomical observations and to create their passion in astronomy study. Second, we are organizing the annual Exploration Program in Astrophysics Research (EPAR) at TNU. The goals of EPAR are to promote the teaching and learning activities at TNU and promoting collaboration between TNU and other institutes. Finally, we are conducting joint research project between TNU and Kyoto astronomical observatory of Kyoto university to prepare for the technical details of the observatory.