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V. Ambartsumian Byurakan Astrophysical Observatory of the National Academy of Sciences is approaching to its 70th anniversary to be marked with high enthusiasm, Director of the Observatory Haik Harutyunyan told reporters on April 28 at the press conference held within the scope of the 70th anniversary events.

“The observatory is one of the symbols of Armenia which due to Viktor Ambartsumian and the staff members of the first generation. Byurakan observatory acquired the status of national value by the RA government decision three years ago, which provided an opportunity to increase its miserable budget. The move brought a positive change to the significant improvement of the scientific infrastructure,” Harutyunyan mentioned.

He then outlined one important achievement of the Observatory during the indicated period, that is the restoration of the 2.6 m telescope, which is considered the largest observational instrument in the region. “30 years ago the new main parabolic mirror of diameter 264cm made of sitall has been installed for the first time and the telescope is upgraded and works via digital system,” Harutyunyan informed, adding that renovation works were implemented in the building as well as the 1m telescope was renovated.

“Today the observatory starts playing the role as it supposed to do over the recent years  - serve the scientific education center for Armenia and the status of a regional center,” Harutyunyan said.

Tigran Movsissyan, deputy head of 2.6 m telescope laboratory at Observatory for his part mentioned that the telescope, constructed in 1976 has not operated during the recent years. Today after the restoration, it is in full operation with observation schedule allocated.