Opening of Archaeoastronomy at NARIT

October 2

Opening of Archaeoastronomy at NARIT
NARIT has opened a new exhibition zone, “Ancient Astronomy,” in Chiang Mai and Songkhla.
We also invite you to listen to a special seminar: “Tracing the Path of Time Through the Stars.”
The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, is preparing to open a new exhibition zone, “Ancient Astronomy,” inviting visitors to trace the history of human wisdom through the relationship between the sun, moon, stars, ancient sites, and way of life. The exhibition will be open to the public from Saturday, October 3, 2026, onwards at the Sirindhorn Astronomical Park in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, and the 7th Cycle Royal Birthday Commemoration Observatory in Songkhla. A special seminar, “Tracing the Path of Time Through the Stars,” will also be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at the Planetarium, Sirindhorn Astronomical Park, Chiang Mai Province.
The “Archaeoastronomy” exhibition showcases the history and heritage of astronomy, integrating knowledge from archaeology and astronomy. It weaves together the relationship between the sky and the lifestyle and wisdom of ancient humans through evidence from archaeological sites, architecture, calendars, traditions, and beliefs. The exhibition connects knowledge from world civilizations to Thailand, particularly regarding the planning and orientation of temples, stupas, religious sites, and ancient monuments. The content is presented through interactive exhibition units and learning materials, encouraging observation, critical thinking, and questioning, especially among children, youth, and the general public. The exhibition is open at two locations: Sirindhorn Astronomical Park in Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai Province, and the 7th Cycle Royal Birthday Commemoration Observatory in Songkhla Province, starting Saturday, October 3, 2026.
To celebrate the opening of the exhibition, NARIT is also holding a special seminar, “Tracing the Path Through the Stars,” on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Sirindhorn Astronomical Park Planetarium in Chiang Mai. Dr. Sarun Poshyachinda, Chairman of the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand, and Ms. Orapin Riyaprao, expert and head of the Astronomical History and Heritage Research Group at NARIT, will discuss perspectives on astronomy, history, and cultural heritage. The discussion will cover topics ranging from reading the sky and using stars as part of daily life to determining direction, planning cities, temples, and historical sites, as well as ways to leverage the value of astronomical heritage for Thai tourism.
Those interested can register at https://forms.gle/waMeLicqO7ARXHKS7 . Participation is free! No charge.
Public Relations and Corporate Communications, National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (Public Organization) Tel. 053-121268-9 ext. 210-211, 081-8854353 Fax 053-121250 E-mail: pr@narit.or.th Website: www.carit.or.th Facebook: www.facebook.com/NARITpage, X: @NARIT Thailand. Instagram: @NARIT Thailand. Tik Tok: NARIT Thailand