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].

Core Perspective - The transformation of Qinghai's Cold Lake from a declining oil town to a prominent astronomical observation site highlights the potential of innovative resource utilization in driving regional development [1][2][3]. Group 1: Historical Context - Cold Lake was once home to China's fourth-largest oil field, with significant oil production starting in 1958, but faced decline due to resource depletion in the 1990s [1][2]. - The area saw a population decline and infrastructure challenges, prompting local leaders to seek new development avenues [2]. Group 2: Astronomical Development - The Cold Lake Astronomical Observation Base, initiated in 2020, is now recognized as Asia's largest optical astronomical observation site, providing a significant boost to China's optical astronomy research [1][3]. - The site boasts an impressive 70% clear night ratio, allowing for approximately 300 days of observation annually, making it an ideal location for astronomical studies [2][3]. Group 3: Infrastructure and Investment - The construction of access roads and the establishment of multiple telescope projects have been supported by significant government funding, with an annual budget of 10 million yuan allocated for the development of the Cold Lake World-Class Astronomical Observation Base [3][5]. - Investments in scientific equipment have reached 3 billion yuan, with 12 organizations operating 45 telescopes at the site [5]. Group 4: Research and Achievements - The "Mozi" telescope, operational since September 2023, has already discovered over 4,200 supernovae and is contributing to a comprehensive database for astronomical research [4][5]. - Cold Lake has produced over 100 research papers and patents, with many achieving international recognition [4][5]. Group 5: Environmental Protection - The implementation of the "Cold Lake Astronomical Observation Environment Protection Regulations" aims to safeguard the dark night sky essential for astronomical observations, addressing potential light pollution from tourism and development [6]. - A total area of 17,800 square kilometers has been designated as a dark sky protection zone to mitigate light pollution and ensure the sustainability of astronomical research [6].