Scientific (Astro) tourism activities in Armenia and in South West and Central Asian region

Abstract

Scientific Tourism activities have been initiated in a number of countries during the recent decades. Armenia was among the first countries developing Scientific Tourism and most probably the first to develop Astro Tourism. We were the first to introduce the term “Astronomical Tourism” (or “Astro Tourism”). This includes visits to astronomy-related sites (astronomical observatories, astronomical institutes, astronomy-related university departments, ancient sky/astronomy-related sites, medieval universities, planetariums, space/astronomy museums, etc.) but not only. The organization of astronomical meetings, schools, camps and other events with involvement of many visitors, we also consider as Astro Tourism activities. We give an overview of our activities, including the main project; development of Astro Tourism in the SWCA region. A detailed study of Astro Tourism sites in Armenia, Georgia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkey and (in addition) Uzbekistan was carried out, namely, modern astronomical observatories and institutes, ancient astronomy-related sites, medieval universities, planetariums, astronomy/space museums, etc. A webpage was built representing Astro Tourism in SWCA region. We also discuss the Scientific Tourism and Tourism in general as disciplines for studies and not only as service. We will share our experience on Scientific/Astro tourism activities and discuss how different items may be implemented in different regions.