Observational Sites Investigation

Excellent observational condition is the basis for the development of ground-based astronomy . In recent years, the establishment of the internationally first-class observatories and the large astronomical facilities accelerates the epoch-making research in the field. To find good astronomical observational sites inside China has been the pursuit of Chinese astronomical society for decades.  This would have important impact on the long-term development of astronomical research not only in China, but the East Asia and the world due to the specific geographic location and environment of our country.  At the end of the 50’s and the 70’s last century, a site survey project was launched, which has helped to set up important support bases for the astronomical research in China.  In the last 90’s, the Chinese Academy of Sciences organized a campaign for the investigation of observational sites, which finally promotes the Lijiang Gaomeigu station and the 2.4m optical telescope there.  Preparing for the next generation ground-based large observational facilities,  NAOC launched a project on the site survey in western China in 2003, our research team is responsible for the search of excellent potential sites in the western region of our country, including inspection, selection and monitoring.