National Mapping and Testing of Astronomical Sites in Ethiopia (NMTASE)

Abstract

This work aims to choose potential astronomical sites that can be candidates for a new astronomical optical observatory in Ethiopia, in addition to the Entoto Observatory and Lalibela sites. For our primary investigation, the six basic criteria, namely the altitude of the mountains, artificial light pollution, cloud coverage, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction, were taken into account. Consequently, using the multi-criteria statistical Decision analysis (MCDSA) techniques, 21 high-potential places are selected and presented for further investigation out of 367 mountains. Among these 21 selected places, three sites, Bauhit, Meseraia, and T'at'a are the most suitable places for optical astronomy in Ethiopia. Those selected mountains are mapped and presented to study the future of the astronomical seeing effect. This study may contribute to the protection of those potential astronomical sites and their dark skies and the development of astrotourism for the sustainable development of modern astronomy in Ethiopia and in the East African region.