Fort Binġemma To Be Transformed Into A Space For Astronomical Observation
The Maltese Government has cleared Fort Binġemma and will be used by Xjenza, and not only for the pursuit of science.
“This is definitely good news indeed, although I cannot say that this comes as a surprise, being the fruit of good planning and some serious dealings between the Agency and the Government,” Silvio Scerri said in a statement to Lovin Malta.
The area that the Fort covers will provide Xjenza Malta with a lot of space to be used “intelligently and to good purpose,” not only for science, “but for the building itself.”
“When historical buildings are left to their own devices, or misused, they suffer as a result.”
Fort Binġemma is perfect for what the Agency has in mind, with it being situated on an elevated part of the island with little to no light pollution, making it a perfect site for astronomical observation. “It also lies in the heart of an environmental and agricultural haven.”
Once taken over, the building will be restored to its former magnificence and transformed into a Space hub, “both for downstream research and for astronomical observation.”
Students will have the opportunity to spend “days and even nights rubbing shoulders with out Space-specialised scientists,” giving them a sneak peek into their work and the skies above us.
“In doing so, we plan to export the highly-successful Esplora model of science-meets-people to this gem, in the process spreading scientific knowledge about Space and about the natural surroundings.”
This is more than just a win-win situation, it’s a giant leap forward for our history, research and people.
What do you make of this?
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