Kathmandu, January 19:

The BP Koirala Memorial Planetarium, Observatory and Science Museum Development Board will establish a planetarium in the Tribhuvan University and observatory at Nagarkot within a year.

Observatories will be established across the country very soon, director of the board Shreeharsha Koirala said. “Some countries have already consented to contribute to

establish the observatory,” he said at the closing ceremony of the fifth school on astronomy and astrophysics today.

“Topographically, Nepal is very suitable for astronomical study, the favourable climate and Himalayas are complimentary to develop Nepal as an international astrological centre,” said Sanat Kumar Sharma, assistant executive director of the board.

“Presently, when the western world is trying to invade planets, our students are poorly acquainted with astronomy.” He stressed the need to produce skilled manpower in the field of astronomy.

Dr Jagdish Chandra Pokhrel, vice-president of the National Planning Commission, said, “For the construction of a new Nepal, the country must rediscover itself in the field of science and technology.”

“Within 20 years, Nepal has to be self-sufficient so that no foreign aid should be required in the field of science.”

Around 120 students and teachers participated at the school. Ankit Rimal of St Xavier’s College, Maitighar, said, “The school has given birth to new minds who are willing to work in the field of astronomy and astrophysics.”