About Us
The project aims to create the Urban Observatory of Belgrade, a new observing station within the Astronomical Observatory Belgrade. Among the main goals of the project is to measure and study one of the least understood forms of pollution on Earth, light pollution, and it is also planned that observations will provide information on the distribution of energy consumption, which has a major impact on the environment and ecosystems. Light pollution is one of the least understood forms of pollution that affects all living things on Earth. Therefore, it is necessary to make precise measurements using well-defined astronomical techniques in order to determine its intensity. Light pollution, for example, can be defined as the difference in sky brightness compared to an unpolluted night sky. Measurements taken in a dark location away from any artificial light are compared with measurements taken in locations near sources of intense light pollution. The difference between these measurements shows how much light has been added by human activity over the natural level of darkness. It is estimated that light pollution increases significantly every year by an average of 10 percent, which leads to its doubling in a period of less than 8 years.
Research
The main task of the Urban Observatory project is the mounting of observational equipment on the flat roof of the Astronomical Observatory Tower, the highest point of the urban part of Belgrade. Using this exceptional position, we plan to measure and analyze as many variables important to modern city life as possible. Such a synoptic view of the city will provide the possibility of observing the city on different time scales, ranging from minutes to months and years. This location provides the opportunity to observe not only the narrower city zone (the center of Belgrade), but also its surroundings, e.g. the forest and Danube river. The construction of an observation facility in the city environment to study light pollution and dynamic processes in Belgrade will enable observation activities in different weather conditions throughout the year. Given that a couple of instruments will be mounted at the Vidojevica Astronomical Station one of the last dark locations in Serbia, one of the last dark locations in Serbia, it will be possible to analyze the problem of light pollution in Serbia in detail.
By creating a new observing station in Belgrade that will be used for various tasks (measurement of sky brightness, atmospheric visibility, determination of cloud cover and measurement of sky pollution), the Urban Observatory project will contribute to our understanding of the complex aspects of light pollution. It is expected that various potential users of observation and analysis, in addition to the scientific community, will also be city administrations, decision makers, businessmen, ecological organizations, institutions in the field of environmental protection, the general public, the media, educators and all interested parties. This project will enable the optimal use of observational resources and the international exchange of knowledge and results with other related projects. The results of the project will be used by the Municipality of Zvezdara and the City of Belgrade, as these measurements will provide elements for making decisions in the direction of creating a better environment that will improve the health of the population of Belgrade and its surroundings. As part of the long-term strategy regarding light pollution, a discussion will be initiated on the design of lighting adapted to dark skies, such as direction, spectral composition and limited lighting duration, and it is also planned to initiate the construction of dark sky parks in Serbia that already exist in neighboring countries.
A team of 8 researchers from 4 scientific institutes from Serbia will be involved in the Urban Observatory project. The head of the project is Dr. Srđan Samurović, principal research fellow, from the Astronomical Observatory. The leader of work package no. 2, which refers to the acquisition and maintenance of equipment, is Dr. Zorica Cvetković, principal research fellow, from the Institute of Physics, the leader of work package no. 3, which refers to the installation and maintenance of the software, is Dr. Rade Pavlović, principal research fellow, also from the Institute of Physics, the leader of work package no. 4, which refers to data analysis, is Dr. Goran Damljanović, principal research fellow from the Astronomical Observatory and, finally, the leader of work package no. 5 who deals with the dissemination of the results is Dr. Dajana Bjelajac, assistant professor at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Novi Sad. The project team also includes Dr. Zoran Simić, principal research fellow from the Astronomical Observatory, Dr. Dragan Lukić, research associate from the Institute of Physics and Dr. Branislav Rovčanin, assistant professor from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade.
Instruments
We have Tess-w photometer and Sky Quality Meter in a pair, so one pair is installed at Astronomical Observatory in Belgrade, and the other pair at the Astronomical Station Vidojevica near Prokuplje.
Tess-w photometer
TESS-W is the photometer we need to continously monitoring the sky brightness at night.
Sky quality meter
Measuring the brightness of the night sky has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, as artificial lights and their scattering by the Earth’s atmosphere continue spreading around the globe.
Allsky camera - Alcor System OMEA 3C
The purpose of these systems is to carry out All or Full Sky surveillance of the night or day sky, and in a continuous fashion. It is possible to assess, in real time, the night sky quality, and to record fast phenomena (meteors and fireballs) or slower (satellites, rockets, noctilucent clouds, zodiacal light, aurora, airglow...).
Data Collection
Data Collection info will be posted very soon
News and Updates
Serbian service of the BBC published a report
The Serbian service of the BBC published a report on light pollution on Saturday, November 23, 2024, in which their journalist, Milica Radenković Jeremić, interviewed the participants of the UrbObsBel project Dr. Dajana Bjelajac and Dr. Srdjan Samurović. The text is available here.
Serbian magazine Planeta
The Serbian magazine Planeta recently dedicated its 119th issue to contemporary research in astronomy. It also briefly presents, among other things, the Science Fund's project, the Urban Observatory of Belgrade (UrbObBel). The link to this issue of Planeta is here.
National Forum on Contemporary Space Research 2024
The National Forum on Contemporary Space Research (NaFSKI) organized a conference in Sofia from 22-24 October 2024 to showcase the latest achievements of education, science and business in Bulgaria in the field of space.
The fifth edition of NaFSKI is organised by Branch Cosmos of UPB, the Institute of Astronomy and National Astronomical Observatory – BAS and Ratio popular science communication platform. It gathers leading researchers and innovators from Bulgaria and beyond, creating new opportunities for collaboration. The PRIZMA project of the City Observatory of Belgrade (UrbObsBel) was presented by Dr. Zoran Simić with the invitation lecture titled Urban Observatory – Light Pollution on the second day of the conference.
Dr. Zoran Simić
Dr. Zoran Simić
Conference session
World Space Week
On October 10, 2024 as part of World Space Week, the Science Club at the Center for the Promotion of Science in Belgrade hosted the panel discussion "Space and Climate Change." The event emphasized the vital role of space technologies, particularly satellite observations, in understanding climate change and creating sustainable solutions.
Minister Dr. Jelena Begović and World Space Week Association's Executive Director Alma Okpalefe opened the event. Key Serbian projects were presented, including the MOSAIC project described by Dr. Dušan Marčeta, Mathematical Faculty of the University of Belgrade, the "Vidojevica Dark Sky Park" by Dr. Dajana Bjelajac on behalf of the NGO Carpe Noctem, and Research Unit for Solar Activity Monitoring, Climate Change and Light Pollution of the Astronomical Observatory of Belgrade, introduced by principal research fellow Dr. Srđan Samurović.
The discussion concluded with insights from the BioSense Institute's citizen science project, "Nurturing the Connection with Soil," highlighting citizen involvement in monitoring biodiversity and soil health.
Dr. Srđan Samurović and Dr. Dajana Bjelajac participated on behalf of UrbObsBel team and presented some of the most important aspects of the project.
"Urban Observatory of Belgrade" project is funded by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia, reg. no. 6775.
Dr. Srđan Samurović
Minister Dr. Jelena Begović
Dr. Dajana Bjelajac and Dr. Srđan Samurović
Зоран Томић
Useful Links
Uproar in the Cosmos
In honor of World Space Week, Zoran Tomić, advisor to the Minister of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation and the national coordinator of the event; Dr. Dajana Bjelajac, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Sciences in Novi Sad; and Dr. Srđan Samurović, astronomer and Scientific Advisor at the Astronomical Observatory Belgrade, appeared on the RTS Lab program. They discussed how astronomers and other enthusiasts marked World Space Week, as well as the latest research and projects in the field.
Dr. Srđan Samurović and Dr. Dajana Bjelajac represented the UrbObsBel team, presenting the most significant aspects of the project.
This research was supported by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia, grant no. 6775, Urban Observatory of Belgrade - UrbObsBel.
Zoran Tomić, Ivanka Joksimović, Viktor Manević, dr Dajana Bjelajac and dr Srđan Samurović
Useful Links
XIV Serbian-Bulgarian Astronomical Conference
At the XIV Serbian-Bulgarian Astronomical Conference, held in Vrnjačka Banja from September 23 to 27, 2024, the project Urban Observatory of Belgrade was presented by Dr. Zorica Cvetković, Dr. Goran Damljanović, Dr. Rade Pavlović and Dr. Zoran Simić with three posters. The first poster titled "URBAN OBSERVATORY OF BELGRADE (UrbObsBel)" gave a description of our project of Urban Observatory of Belgrade, i.e. to follow the development of the city and its impact on environment through light pollution during the next three years. On the second poster "The UrbObsBelProject: Instruments and Detectors" we have shown all the instruments and devices that we use or will use to measure light pollution on various wavelengths. By saving and analyzing this data, we will suggest to the city authorities the possible steps to reduce the impact of light pollution on the environment. On the third poster "QUANTIFICATION OF LIGHT POLLUTION IN URBAN REGION OF BELGRADE" the results of the determination of light pollution above Belgrade's center are presented, whereby the obtained high values of light pollution are expected in urban areas.
This research was supported by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia, grant no. 6775, Urban Observatory of Belgrade - UrbObsBel.
Dr. Zorica Cvetković, Dr. Goran Damljanović, Dr. Zoran Simić and Dr. Rade Pavlović
Dr. Rade Pavlović, Dr. Goran Damljanović, Dr. Zorica Cvetković and Dr. Zoran Simić
The 9th Astronomical Camp "Jastrebac 2024"
The 9th Astronomical Camp "Jastrebac 2024", lasted from August 23 to 25, has successfully concluded. This year's event on Jastrebac was notable for offering participants a unique opportunity to acquire extensive knowledge in astronomy and related sciences. Both seasoned attendees and newcomers had the chance to immerse themselves in the wonders of the universe.
A special highlight of the camp was the participation of the NGO "Carpe Noctem" and Dr. Dajana Bjelajac, who represented the UrbObsBel team. Her extensive lectures, on August 23, significantly raised awareness about the critical issue of light pollution, a topic that resonated deeply with many participants. Jovan Aleksić delivered a series of lectures on stellar particles, the Big Bang, and Dark Matter, providing invaluable insights into these complex subjects.
Additionally, the camp provided an opportunity for participants to learn from Marko Grozdanović, an astrophysicist at the Astronomical Observatory in Belgrade, who discussed binary and multiple star systems. Remote observations of celestial bodies through some of the largest telescopes in Serbia were another major attraction.
The event was further enriched by the visit of a special adviser from the Ministry of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation, Zoran Tomić, who delivered a lecture on the state of astronomy in Serbia, including future ideas and plans.
The "Jastrebac 2024" project was funded by the City of Kruševac within the framework of the Local Action Plan for Youth, with support from the Tourism Organization of Kruševac and the Center for Professional Development Kruševac.
"Urban Observatory of Belgrade" project funded by Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia.
Dr. Dajana Bjelajac
Workshop dedicated to light pollution
A workshop dedicated to light pollution, astronomical tourism, and the preservation of natural darkness in the area surrounding the Vidojevica Astronomical Station was held at the Prokuplje Cultural Center on July 26, 2024. The event aimed to provide participants with detailed information on these important topics, as well as opportunities for involvement in the establishment of a dark sky park. Zoran Tomić, a special advisor to the minister of science, technological development and innovation of the Republic of Serbia, dr Jelena Begović, also addressed the attendees.
During the workshop, participants were introduced to the concept of light pollution and its negative impact on human health, nature, and quality of life. Simple methods for assessing the level of light pollution in one's immediate surroundings were presented, along with practical steps individuals can take to reduce this issue. A significant portion of the workshop focused on the importance of preserving naturally dark areas and the ways to protect them, which is crucial for improving the environment.
Additionally, participants gained insight into the work of the Belgrade Astronomical Observatory and the significance of the Vidojevica Astronomical Station, with an emphasis on the development of astronomical tourism. It was highlighted that astronomical tourism can be a significant factor in enhancing the quality of life in rural and sparsely populated areas and can have a positive impact on the local economy.
The final segment of the workshop covered the importance of effective science promotion and communication. Participants learned how science promotion can yield significant results and raise awareness of scientific topics among a broader audience.
The workshop was led by Assistant Professor Dr. Dajana Bjelajac from the Faculty of Sciences in Novi Sad, Research Associate Dr. Milan Stojanović from the Belgrade Astronomical Observatory, and Aleksa Vasić, an advisor from the Center for the Promotion of Science. Dr. Dajana Bjelajac also spoke on behalf of the URBOBSBEL team.
Dr. Milan Stojanović and Aleksa Vasić
Observing Perseids at Vidojevica
On Sunday, August 11, 2024, from 8 PM until midnight, an event titled "Observing the Perseids at Vidojevica" took place at the Beli Kamen location.
During this event, citizens had the opportunity to observe one of the most famous and beautiful meteor showers.
This natural phenomenon is renowned for its brilliant and spectacular display in the night sky, and attendees were able to experience it firsthand. In addition to enjoying the view of the Perseids, visitors observed the night sky through telescopes, guided by experienced astronomers who shared interesting facts about stars, planets, and distant galaxies. Geographers were also present, explaining how light pollution affects the deterioration of night sky observation conditions and discussing ways to preserve and improve these conditions. The event was organized as part of the initiative to establish the "Vidojevica Dark Sky Park."
The observation of this meteor shower was organized by the non-governmental organization "Carpe Noctem," the Belgrade Astronomical Observatory, and the Astronomical Society "Alpha" from Niš, with support from the Ministry of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation, the City of Prokuplje, and the Center for the Promotion of Science.
Dr. Dajana Bjelajac attended the event on behalf of the URBOBSBEL team.
Astronomical Observatory at the International Technical Fair
The Astronomical Observatory of Belgrade presented itself at this year's 66th International Fair of Technics and Technical Achievements with three projects. The MOSAIC CubeSat project was presented: this project of the first Serbian scientific satellite is now in the concept phase. The goals of the MOSAIC mission are to observe the Sun in X-ray radiation and to observe the planet Earth from orbit. A life-size model of the satellite was presented at the Fair, as well as one of the devices that will be taken into orbit. On this project, the Astronomical Observatory cooperates with the Mihajlo Pupin Institute and with three faculties of the University of Belgrade: Faculty of Mathematics, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and School of Electrical Engineering. Also, the Astronomical Observatory presented two PRISMA projects led by the Observatory and funded by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia and which started working at the beginning of this year: the Urban Observatory of Belgrade -- UrbObsBel (researchers from the Institute of Physics, the Faculty of Science, University of Novi Sad, as well as the Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade also participate) and the MOBY (Modeling Binary Systems That End in Stellar Mergers and Give Rise to Gravitational Waves) project with the researcher from the Faculty of Mathematics. On the panel of the Urban Observatory, in addition to the description of the planned activities, the case of the HSI (Hyperspectral Imaging Sensor) device, which is currently being constructed and will be used for measurements within this project, was shown. Colleagues from the Faculty of Mathematics presented themselves at the astronomy stand, showing the Vera Rubin telescope, i.e., the LSST (Legacy Survey in Space and Time) project and the contribution of Serbian scientists to this project.
Dr. Srdjan Samurović and Dr. Luka Popović, director of the Astronomical Observatory
Dr. Zoran Simić and Dr. Rade Pavlović
Visits to the Astronomical Observatory during the International Technical Fair
During this year's 66th International Fair of Technics and Technical Achievements, the Astronomical Observatory hosted visitors from the People's Republic of China. First, on Wednesday, May 22, 2024, the Astronomical Observatory was visited by Mr. Bob Chen, a representative of MinoSpace, one of the most reputable Chinese companies engaged in research and production of satellites. Mr. Chen presented the work of the MinoSpace company in detail to Dr. Goran Damljanović and Dr. Srdjan Samurović. After a discussion about the work and possibilities of this company, Dr. Samurović presented the planned activities of the Urban Observatory of Belgrade project, UrbObsBel, funded by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia. After discussing the project, Mr. Chen visited the Great Refractor pavilion where he learned about this instrument and its importance for Serbian astronomy.
Mr. Bob Chen and Dr. Srdjan Samurović
The following day (Thursday, May 23), the Astronomical Observatory was visited by a delegation from the Beijing Academy of Science and Technology (BJAST), led by the president of this institution, Dr. Jianmin Wu. Also, in this delegation were Dr. Junkai Li, Dr. Baoming Li, Ms. Lin Li, Dr. Jing Zhu and Ms. Rong Ren. At the meeting organized on that occasion, the Astronomical Observatory was represented by Dr. Jelena Kovačević Dojčinović, deputy director of Dr. Luka Popović, who was on an official trip, Dr. Milan Stojanović, head of the Research Unit for Space Science and Technologies, and Dr. Srdjan Samurović, president of the Scientific council of the Astronomical Observatory and head of the Research Unit for Solar Activity Monitoring, Climate Change and Light Pollution. Also present were Dr. Jelena Svorcan from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, prof. Dr. Dušan Marcheta from the Faculty of Mathematics and Mr. Dobrivoje Lale Erić from the Center for the Promotion of Science. Dr. Stojanović presented to the distinguished guests from China the history of the Astronomical Observatory and its scientific activities. After his presentation, Dr. Samurović briefly presented the problem of light pollution and the PRISMA project of the Urban Observatory of Belgrade (UrbObsBel) of which he is the coordinator and whose implementation began in January of this year. Colleagues from China were very interested and various aspects of possible future cooperation were discussed. After the meeting, the guests visited the Great Refractor pavilion, where Dr. Stojanović described the features of this telescope and answered their questions.
The delegation from the Beijing Academy of Science and Technology (BJAST) visits the Astronomical Observatory
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