Mt. Dushak-Erekdag Observatory: A Chance to Close the Asian Gaps in WET Coverage

Abstract

Abstract.The Mt. Dushak-Erekdag Observatory (Central Asia, Turkmenistan, 58 • E longitude) is located just in the longitudes gap of asteroseismological networks. It is the southernmost observatory of the former Soviet Union, its latitude is +38 • . The sky seeing at the site is one of the best in Central Asia: a low light pollution, high and stable sky transparency, over 200 usable nights per year. The altitude is above 2000 m.Odessa Astronomical Observatory has its 0.8 m telescope with a two-star high-speed photometer there, which frequently participates in international programs and multi-site campaigns. An accuracy of the photometry amounts to 1 mmag. Besides, a 1 m wide-angle telescope and a dual-tube telescope with 0.5 m mirrors are installed at the observatory.The developed infrastructure at the site and the stable economy in Turkmenistan make the Mt. Dushak-Erekdag Observatory very interesting for the WET observations.