Core Viewpoint - The transformation of the Cold Lake area from an oil-rich region to a leading astronomical observation site highlights the potential of innovative resource utilization in response to resource depletion [1][2][3]. Group 1: Historical Context - Cold Lake, once the site of China's fourth-largest oil field, experienced a decline due to resource exhaustion, leading to a population decrease and infrastructure challenges [1][3]. - The region gained attention in the 1950s when significant oil production began, but by the 1990s, the oil workers had largely left as resources dwindled [2][3]. Group 2: Development of Astronomical Observations - The Cold Lake Astronomical Observation Base has become Asia's largest optical astronomy site, with the construction project initiated in July 2020 [1][2]. - The site was identified as having excellent observation conditions, with 70% of nights being clear, allowing for approximately 300 days of observation each year [3][4]. Group 3: Investment and Infrastructure - Since 2022, the Cold Lake World-Class Astronomical Observation Base has been included in Qinghai Province's top ten national science and technology innovation platforms, receiving annual funding of 10 million yuan [5]. - The region has attracted significant investment, with 30 billion yuan allocated for scientific equipment, and 12 organizations operating 45 telescopes at the site [6]. Group 4: Scientific Achievements - The "Mozi" telescope, operational since September 2023, has discovered over 4,200 supernovae and related transient sources, contributing to a significant database for astronomical research [6]. - Cold Lake has produced over 100 research papers and patents, with many findings at the international advanced level [6]. Group 5: Environmental Protection - The implementation of the "Cold Lake Astronomical Observation Environmental Protection Regulations" in 2023 aims to safeguard the dark night sky essential for astronomical observations [9]. - The regulations cover light source types and brightness, ensuring that outdoor lighting does not interfere with astronomical research [9][10]. Group 6: Future Prospects - The Cold Lake area is positioned to become a world-renowned astronomical site, fostering original scientific discoveries and enhancing humanity's understanding of the universe [10].

Group 1 - The article highlights that Venus, known as the "Morning Star," will be most visible in the eastern sky during the period from late July to early August, providing an excellent opportunity for public observation [1][6]. - Venus is the second planet from the Sun in the solar system and is typically the brightest celestial object after the Sun and the Moon, reaching a maximum brightness of -4.9 magnitude [2]. - During the period from late July to early August, Venus will reach its highest elevation in the sky at approximately 31 degrees, although its brightness will decrease to around -4.0 magnitude [6]. Group 2 - The article mentions that Venus will appear as the "Morning Star" in the eastern sky until the end of the year, with significant visibility during dawn [6][8]. - Observers are encouraged to find unobstructed views in the east to enjoy the sight of Venus, which will rise about two hours before sunrise during this peak observation period [6]. - The article notes that Venus exhibits phases similar to the Moon, and regular observations through a telescope can reveal noticeable changes in its shape [8].

Group 1 - The EAST telescope auxiliary monitoring system has been launched at the Qinghai Cold Lake astronomical observation research base, providing autonomous, all-weather, and high-altitude adaptable site environment monitoring for the EAST telescope construction [1] - The system focuses on key site parameter monitoring required for the construction of large aperture optical telescopes in the Tibetan Plateau, integrating subsystems for all-weather visibility monitoring, night sky brightness measurement, and atmospheric optical turbulence profile monitoring [1] - The monitoring system will enable astronomers to determine the most suitable observation targets and modes for the EAST telescope based on comprehensive monitoring information, and to adjust the telescope's mirror shape in real-time using adaptive optics technology to minimize atmospheric turbulence effects [1] Group 2 - The EAST telescope, led by Peking University, is expected to be completed by 2030 and will become the largest optical telescope in Asia, with the potential to achieve breakthroughs in fields such as the nature of dark matter, galaxy evolution history, and exoplanet searches [2]

Group 1 - The article discusses the upcoming celestial event where a crescent moon will meet Venus and the Pleiades star cluster, referred to as "star-moon dialogue" [1] - Venus will be visible as a bright morning star from late March until the end of the year, playing the role of "morning star" [1] - The event on June 22 will allow the public to observe the bright Venus alongside the crescent moon for nearly two hours, making it a worthwhile viewing opportunity [1] Group 2 - On June 23, the crescent moon will continue its journey to the vicinity of the Pleiades star cluster, which is one of the closest open star clusters to Earth and can be seen with the naked eye [2] - The visibility of the Pleiades star cluster is enhanced by the low brightness of the crescent moon, which will not interfere significantly with the observation [2] - Observers are encouraged to find locations with minimal light pollution, such as rural areas, to best view the Pleiades star cluster alongside the crescent moon [2]