By / ScenicSpot.com Editorial Team
The Chiayi Forest District Office of the Forestry Bureau, in collaboration with the Chiayi City Astronomy Association, is organizing two winter "Great Winter Diamond" astronomy camps at Alishan National Scenic Area on January 18–19 and February 22–23, 2020. Registration begins at 9:00 AM on December 27. Those interested in nature and astronomy are encouraged to seize the opportunity to stargaze in Alishan.
Stargazing experience in Alishan. (Photo / Forestry Bureau, Alishan Management Office, same below)
A sparkling diamond in the sky
"When three stars shine bright in the cold winter, the Pleiades cluster sparkles brilliantly." Though mountain temperatures can drop to around zero degrees Celsius during winter nights in Taiwan, it is actually the best season of the year for stargazing. In addition to the more stable weather and lower rainfall, the air becomes clearer, making the stars appear especially brilliant. Winter also features the most bright stars among the four seasonal night skies.
The rising sun over Yushan Main Peak.
This includes the brightest star in the sky, "Sirius," along with the two first-magnitude stars of Orion, "Betelgeuse" and "Rigel." Together with another four first-magnitude stars from other constellations, they form the largest hexagonal “Great Diamond” in the sky—perfect for couples to admire together as a heartfelt expression of love.
Stargazing team observes sunspots.
For this event, the Chiayi City Astronomy Association has specially prepared several telescope setups that can be controlled via mobile phones. In addition to naked-eye stargazing and using telescopes operated by staff, participants can also explore their desired celestial targets through their own phones.
The beautiful starry sky of Alishan.
The sun rising over Yushan Main Peak.
Due to the tilt of the Earth’s rotational axis, the position and timing of the sunrise vary with the seasons. In winter, you’ll notice that the sunrise location gradually shifts from the southwest along the mountain ridges to the north. Around February 16 each year, the sun rises directly from Yushan Main Peak—the highest peak in Northeast Asia. Witnessing the moment the sun emerges from this peak is a uniquely memorable experience. For eye and equipment safety, it's recommended to use proper filters for both photography and direct viewing.
[Info]
Registration Start Time: Opens at 9:00 AM on Friday, December 27, 2019
Event Brochure and Registration URL: https://goo.gl/8iVNmb
Notes: During the event, participants will take electric shuttle buses within the park to travel between main activity locations. Accommodation is in shared dormitory-style beds, with separate rooms for different genders.
Eligibility: Students from the 3rd grade of elementary school and above with basic language proficiency, as well as adults and seniors, are welcome to join.
Event Fee: NT$2,100 per person
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》https://www.mook.com.tw/article.php?op=articleinfo&articleid=22741