TEHRAN – The Iranian Space Agency (ISA) is planning to set up a network to connect nine astronomical observatories in the country, the ISA director Morteza Barari has said, Mehr reported on Thursday.

“There are 50 observatories in Iran, of which nine are allocated to astronomical activities,” he said.

By launching the network, the observatories share their scientific achievements as well as discovering and tracking celestial bodies, space technological services and applications, he said.

“We aim to provide infrastructures to improve services for Iranian astronomers and to increase efficiency in using astronomical instruments,” he explained.

The ISA has developed a comprehensive plan for investment in the field of astronomy and satellite technology with the help of the private sector, he added.

Barari said that by manufacturing a radio telescope, a specialized antenna is used to receive radio waves from astronomical radio sources in the sky.

He named synergy and web-based networking among the astronomical observatories as crucial factors in supporting of the academic society and development of this sector.

SB/MG