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SAO is Russia's main centre for ground-based space research. The Observatory is located in the South of Russia, in the Caucasus mountains of Karachaevo-Cherkesia. |
The basic instruments of the Observatory are the
optical telescope
BTA (Big Alt-azimuth Telescope) with a main
mirror diameter of 6 m and the
radio telescope
RATAN-600 with the antenna diameter 600 m.
Study of the Universe as a whole, analysis of non-stationary energy
release in galactic and extragalactic objects of various types, investigation
of evolution and chemical composition of our Galaxy and the nature of
solar activity. Ecology of upper atmosphere and nearby space.
Provision of methodical and technical facilities for observations
on the largest telescopes, conducted accordingly to the programs of
Russian and foreign astronomical institutions.
Elaboration of the newest means and methods of observations to
realize the limiting characteristics of BTA and RATAN-600: sensitivity,
spectral, spatial and time resolution.
Development of the system for acquisition, storage and processing
of astronomical data, and switch to the international astronomical
data base network.