Pakistan’s first computerised observatory set up at NED
Pakistan has its first computerized observatory for advanced astronomical research which operates from NED University’s Department of Computer Information Systems in Karachi.
The advanced observatory system positions itself to transform research about galaxies planets stars and galaxies. Karachi hosts its second observatory in addition to the University of Karachi observatory which remains the only establishment focusing on astronomical research in the metropolitan area. The new observatory contains modern telescopes specifically a 14-inch lens telescope alongside a mobile application controller to deliver precise and accessible celestial observation services. The observatory will become the main center for spotting the Ramazan crescent during its initial sighting since clerics-led moonsighting committees previously handled this responsibility.
Dr Muhammad Ali Ismail from NED University’s National Centre for Big Data and Cloud Computing emphasized the world-wide importance of computerised observatories during an interview. The NED observatory stands among the limited number of global facilities which connects its telescopes to computer systems with centralized data storage at the main data center according to Dr Ismail during his Express Tribune interview.
The modern system allows scientists to handle their tasks from remote locations without requiring a physical presence at the observatory site according to his explanation. Scientists have access to important datasets stored in the Big Data and Cloud Computing Centre through its link to the observatory system.
Dr Ismail disclosed that NED University is working together with international space agencies such as NASA to develop astronomical research initiatives. Dr Ismail predicted that this partnership between institutions would result in extended boundaries for research performed at the observatory facility.
The observatory’s technological progress reaches beyond mere telescope observations because it includes abilities to research solar activities. Uzair Abid who leads the National Centre team indicated that advanced telescopic equipment can collect critical space weather data especially concerning solar spots.
