Message from the Chairman of the Board
Pairash Thajchayapong, Chairman of NARIT Executive Board:
The important roles that science and technology play in national development have long been understood by the Thai Government. Gradually, the intrinsic value of basic sciences and their relationship to building a knowledge-based society have been challenged. Strengthening research capacity of the nation in basic sciences paves the solid step to such a society. Astronomy, of which may be labeled the oldest science of human beings, has emerged as a landmark for such activity. Astronomical phenomena attract more public interest than any other branch of sciences. It is, therefore, rational enough to employ astronomy to build up scientific awareness among the public.
One effective mechanism that holds promise to the above goals is the establishment of the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand(NARIT) that is focused on carrying out research in the relevant fields of astronomy. NARIT is committed to four main missions, namely: Carrying out research and development in the field of astronomy; Setting up research and academic networks,on both national and international level; Promoting and supporting collaboration in the field of astronomy among various government academic organizations within and outside the country, including relevant private sections; and, finally communicating and transfering astronomical knowledge and technologies to the public through the efficient public outreach programmes.
Director’s View
Boonrucksar Soonthornthum, Director of NARIT:
The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand provides an essential service to Thailand, South-East Asia and its citizens. It promotes and contributes to an understanding of our planet, solar system, all celestial objects and phenomena via research work and education and ensures Thailand will be the vital contributor to development in Astronomy and Astrophysics. NARIT's strength lies in its very nature: a truly public organization powered by highly motivated staff. Our education and public outreach programmes are designed to inspire younger generations to become explorers in astronomy on research-based technology and to reach out to groups and individuals who have been under-represented in astronomy science enterprise. In this era of knowledge-based society, research has become a crucial tool in addressing the challenges the astronomical community is facing at the frontier of knowledge. Through NARIT, we will be able to set up a collaborative research network both regionally and globally aiming at developing and strengthening knowledge in astronomy, so as to meet international standards. It is a privilege for me to lead such a Research Institute.
NARIT(the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand) is a newly-established national research and development center for ground-based astronomy. Its mission is to shape the development of Thailand’s capability in the field of astronomy and to ensure that investment in conducting research in Astronomy and Astrophysics delivers benefits to the country and the world.
NARIT’s job is to draw up the astronomy and astrophysics education and research programmes and carry them through.
In particular, NARIT is promoting the development of a collaborative research network both regionally and globally aiming at developing and strengthening knowledge in astronomy, so as to meet international standards. NARIT also works closely with astronomical observatories and institutes in some Asian countries, for excellence in scientific research, education and public outreach.
NARIT's headquarter office is in Chiang Mai which is where administrative works are carried out.
The Thai National Observatory which is a part of NARIT is located at the summit of Doi Inthanon and houses a 2.4 meter telescope equipped wit an auto-guider
NARIT also has a liaison office in Bangkok and ground-based observatories in various geographical regions of the country.
Where do NARIT’s funds come from?
Being a public organization under the auspice of the Ministry of Science and Technology, NARIT's budget are funded by the government.
The Executive Board is NARIT's governing body and provides the basic policy guidelines within which NARIT develops the astronomy and astrophysics education and research programmes to be carried out.
NARIT is headed by the Director who is elected by the Executive Board every four years. The present Director of NARIT is Professor Boonrucksar Soonthornthum.
last update: 18 June 2010