The historical Abastumani observatory has received a new 12-metre-radius dome and telescope as part of a rehabilitation of the historical facility.

According to the Ministry of Regional Development and Infrastructure, the telescope built by an Austrian company and the dome produced by Italian manufacturers were set to undergo testing before their use for research, scientific, and educational work.

All necessary infrastructure had been set up in the area of the 92-year-old observatory, enabling it to independently pursue scientific and research activities. With the new telescope, appropriate equipment, and infrastructure, the observatory will host high-level conferences and symposiums.

The project, which is co-financed from the state budget, was being implemented within the World Bank’s loan agreement worth GEL 8.6 million.