West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil: Bosscha Observatory as the Answer to the Future
By Adi Permana
Editor Adi Permana
LEMBANG, itb.ac.id—The Governor of West Java, Dr. (H.C) H. Ridwan Kamil, S.T., M.U.D – also known as Kang Emil - gave his speech during the 100th anniversary of ITB Bosscha Observatory. He showed his appreciation for being a part of a modern science institution that managed to reach its 100th year of operation, especially in the field of astronomy.
The 100th Anniversary of Bosscha Observatory that was held at Lembang (Monday, 30/1/2023) coincides with the 100th Anniversary of Gedung Sate. Kang Emil was proud of the Bosscha Observatory because only a few institutions can go through 100 years, especially an institution with so many significant impacts on science.
Bosscha Observatory is the oldest observatory in Indonesia. Located in Lembang, West Java, Bosscha Observatory is equipped with 12 telescopes, including 3 radio ones. The 0.6-meter Double Refractor Zeiss Telescope is the 3rd largest dome-mounted telescope in the southern hemisphere after Australia and South Africa.
“This observatory is one of a kind because of its advantageous position at the equator, allowing clear observation of celestial bodies. Therefore, it must be maintained well for years to come,” Kang Emil declared.
Kang Emil added that the West Java government had prepared a legal mechanism consisting of rules and policies to protect the Bosscha Observatory from harm. It is hoped that the path to the ratification will not be disturbed by short-term interests from outside parties.
The West Java government has prioritized the development of the region’s human resources. The West Java Government has done many things to ensure it can be achieved. One example is allocating 37% of the governmental budget for human resources and education development and support at ITB. During the event, Kang Emil expressed his hope that in the future Bosscha Observatory could produce many benefits to the people which cannot be measured by economics alone.
ITB Rector, Prof. Reini Wirahadikusumah, Ph.D., also supported Kang Emil’s aspiration, stating that astronomy is a universal science field. The observatory, as the culmination of multidisciplinary integration, serves as an asset that can yield many benefits for everyone.
The Bosscha Observatory centennial celebration event is a form of commemoration for the struggles and achievements of all contributing parties. Taking care of science facilities for 100 years is certainly a product of an intensive and extensive international collaboration from ITB and its partners, including the West Java government.
Reporter: Pravito Septadenova Dwi Ananta (Geological Engineering, 2019)
Translator: Ruth Nathania (Environmental Engineering, 2019)
