Morocco's High Atlas mountains, known for some of the darkest skies in Africa, have become a focal point for astronomical research. The Oukaïmeden Observatory, located about 80 kilometers from Marrakech, has been operational for over two decades and has grown into a significant hub for both national and international scientific projects.
Recent developments include the installation of the Morocco Oukaïmeden Infrared Observatory (MOROCCO), a project led by the Oukaimeden Observatory in partnership with the Cadi Ayyad University and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS). This initiative aims to monitor near-Earth objects and study the dynamics of the solar system, contributing to global planetary defense efforts.
The observatory also hosts the MOSS (Morocco Oukaimeden Sky Survey) telescope, which has discovered numerous asteroids and comets. In 2023, it was involved in the detection of a new comet, C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), which was also spotted by other observatories, highlighting the collaborative nature of modern astronomy.
Beyond research, the site serves as a training ground for African astronomers, with workshops and educational programs aimed at building local expertise. The dark skies of the High Atlas, combined with the region's altitude and clear weather, make it an ideal location for such activities, and there are plans to expand the observatory's capabilities in the coming years.
