Maidanak Observatory, near Shakhrisabz

Maidanak High-Altitude Observatory is one of Central Asia’s most significant astronomical centers. It is located in the western part of the Maidanak Plateau, about 45 kilometers south of the historic Uzbek city of Shakhrisabz. Founded in 1970, the observatory was established after scientists identified this site as uniquely suited for astronomical research, thanks to its remarkably stable atmosphere, minimal precipitation, and near-total absence of light pollution.

In the early 1990s, the observatory became a part of the Mirzo Ulugbek Astronomical Institute under the Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences, joining the Kitab network of research stations. Its appeal to scientists lies in the rare combination of high elevation - around 2,600 meters above sea level - and exceptionally clear skies, making it one of the finest locations in the post-Soviet region for studying star systems, exoplanets, and other celestial phenomena. Maidanak Observatory is especially renowned for its precise studies of variable stars, active galactic nuclei, and minor bodies within the solar system.

Today, Maidanak remains among the most active astronomical observatories in the post-Soviet space. It hosts long-term sky-monitoring programs and searches for previously unknown cosmic objects. Through collaboration with international scientific institutions, Maidanak continues to contribute to global space research, shedding light on the mysteries of distant worlds.

A notable milestone came in 2012, when an asteroid discovered in space was named “Maidanak” in honor of the observatory. This recognition underscores the observatory’s respected status and its significant role in advancing astronomical science.