Biruni Observatory

Biruni Observatory was established in 1977 to become a center for education and research in astronomy and astrophysics. Over the last four decades, the activities in the observatory have been divided into two major educational and research groups. The research is done in theoretical and observational divisions. The observational groups basically conduct research by gathering data using different telescopes at the observatory or by collaboration with international teams. Variable stars and extragalactic studies are the main current fields of observational research at Biruni Observatory. The main 20 inch (51 cm) telescope besides 14, 12, 11 and 8-inch telescopes are equipped with a photometer (PMT) and CCD cameras for observing variable stars. In the theoretical division, research is done in astrophysics and cosmology, particle astrophysics, binary stars, construction of the neutron stars, stellar dynamics and evolution, black holes, the theory of general relativity and dark energy. Biruni Observatory publishes significant scientific papers and articles in international journals each year. Doctoral and master students use the facilities to conduct research in astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology to join the other universities and institutes for education and research. The observatory has a communication network with other observatories in and outside Iran. Some major Iranian universities let their Ph.D. and master students use the facilities of the observatory for their research projects. The observatory is also active in organazing workshops and meetings each year. In its 40th anniversary, the center is now taking steps to expand national and international collaborations. For this, the growth of research groups, new programs for educational courses (graduate and undergraduate) and participation in international projects are considered.