Detail

`Since the dawn of history man has continuously observed the celestial sphere in an attempt to solve the mysteries of the universe. Centuries before the invention of the telescope, Koreans also began to observe celestial objects and phenomena such as eclipses, novae, comets, variable stars and meteors. Astronomers of ancient Korea developed their own observing instruments for the study of the heavenly body. Chemseong­dae, built in Kyongju in 647 during the reign of Queen Sundok of the Sila Dynasty, is claimed to be the oldest meteorological observatory in the Orient. At the turn of this century, astronomical activities in Korea became somewhat stagnant because of the internal political situation. Since the end of the Korean War, however, astronomical study revived, and a modern observatory was in urgent demand for research and education. With the establishment of the National Astronomical Observatory on September 13,1974, the celestial study in Korea gradually has got into full gear. The NAO`s main works include researches, compilation of calendars and almanacs, and time report. Sobaeksan Observing Station, built in the Tanyang, Chung­chong Pukto, area, 1,390 meters above the sea level, is an ultra­modern observatory equipped whth a 60㎝ reflecting telecope and a 20㎝ solar telecope in addition to various other instruments for observation. All the facilities and equipment at the Station are always open to astromomical scientists from any country of the world, not to speak of the Korean astronomers. In commemoration of the opening of the Sobaeksan Observing Station, the Ministry of Communications issues this postage stamp in the hope that our astronomers will, through effective utilization of the modernest facilities installed there, futher contribute to the promotion of scientific way of living of our people.`