125 years of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
Kartavya Desk Staff
#### Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: DST
Context: The 125th anniversary of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO) was celebrated recently on April 1, 2024, by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA)
Aspect | Description
What is Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO)? | It is an observatory owned and operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Established in 1899, it is located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, and focuses on solar studies
Need for such an observatory | The great Drought of 1875-1877 emphasized the need for solar studies to understand weather patterns. India’s geographical significance further underscores the importance of such research, given its impact on global weather.
Origin | The concept originated in the late 19th century. Solar Physics Observatory was approved in August 1893. The foundation stone was laid by Lord Wenlock in 1895. March 14, 1901, marked the commencement of systematic observations
Location | Palani Hills of Tamil Nadu
The place was chosen due to its favourable atmospheric conditions and high-altitude, dust-free environment. These factors provide clear and stable viewing conditions for solar observations, making it an ideal site for studying the Sun’s activities and phenomena.
Instruments at KoSO | Initially focused on sunspots, prominences, and solar radiation. Advanced instruments include the H-alpha telescope and the White Light Active Region Monitor (WARM)
Significant achievements of KoSO | Identified the Evershed Effect (a phenomenon observed in sunspots where gas flows radially outward from the centre of the sunspot)
Expanded research scope to cosmic rays, radio astronomy, ionospheric physics, and stellar physics
About the Indian Institute of Astrophysics | Indian Institute of Astrophysics (founded in 1971; HQ: Bengaluru), is an autonomous research institute wholly funded by the Department of Science and Technology. IIA conducts research primarily in the areas of astronomy, astrophysics and related fields
About Kodaikanal | Kodaikanal is a hill town in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It’s set in an area of granite cliffs, forested valleys, lakes, waterfalls and grassy hills.