BRIN Develops Astronomy Tourism Model at Kawah Putih
- 13 Agt 2026 11:55 WIB
- Voice of Indonesia
Key Points
- BRIN is developing Kawah Putih as a potential dark-sky tourism destination, combining astronomy research, stargazing, and environmental education.
- The initiative aims to reduce light pollution and support sustainable tourism development through scientific research and collaboration with academics and tourism institutions.
RRI.CO.ID, Bandung - Combining scientific research with eco-tourism, the Space Research Center (PRA) under the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) hosted the The Journey of the Sun Astrowisata 2026 event at Kawah Putih, Bandung Regency, West Java, from August 8 to 9, 2026.
Organized in collaboration with the Indonesian Tourism Foundation Tourism Economics College (STIEPAR YAPARI) and Universitas Padjadjaran, the initiative brought together photographers, academics, and the general public to explore dark-sky tourism. Beyond stargazing and astrophotography, the program provided science education on constellations, the solar system, and light pollution mitigation.
Researchers collected baseline quantitative optical data and conducted joint telescope observations to assess the site's long-term viability for sustainable astronomy-based tourism development.
Research leaders and tourism experts emphasized that integrating scientific expertise into dark-sky tourism transforms leisure travel into an educational experience while informing sustainable regional policy.
Head of the Space Research Center at BRIN Emmanuel Sungging Mumpuni highlighted the practical policy applications of space research.
"On this occasion, we are providing an understanding of the research that we can contribute from PRA BRIN for regional development, so that the research we conduct can impact policymakers, primarily with the hope that this area can be developed into a zone with potential for sustainable development, it should not just stop on paper, but also produce research that we develop to be utilized by all parties and be useful for development, particularly in Bandung Regency," Emmanuel said in Bandung, as quoted on BRIN's official website.
Lead Researcher and Astrowisata Activity Coordinator from STIEPAR YAPARI Annisa Lazuardina noted the essential role of scientific experts in elevating the tourist experience.
"Of course, we require experts who can explain the concepts. It is hoped that this astrotourism initiative becomes more valuable and provides even greater memories for tourists," Annisa expressed. ***
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