Philippine Astronomical Research Network
 


About PARN

Stargazing has been a favorite pastime for quite a handful of astronomy enthusiast in the Philippines. Because of this, huge number of astronomy-related organizations were created in order to foster the passion of astronomy among astronomers, students and the general public. Among the activities of these societies are conducting stargazing sessions, giving lectures concerning astronomy-related topics, and mentoring of new members into various fields. Meanwhile, formal education in astronomy in the university level had a boost when the Rizal Technological University, for the very first time in Philippine education history, offered a Masters Degree Program in Astronomy, the Master of Science Degree in Astronomy (MS Astronomy). And starting School Year 2007 - 2008, the university began offering the Bachelor of Science in Astronomy Technology Degree (BS Astro Tech) for those who want to earn a Baccalaureate Degree in an Astronomy-related field. 

With this developments, it is interesting to ponder whether astronomical research will also have a boost and begin to develop and advance. The Philippine Astronomical Research Network or PARN was established primarily to address this concern. PARN is an informal network of research-oriented individuals, founded on November 11, 2006, whose main goal is to promote research studies in astronomy locally, may it be in the observational or theoretical aspect. Scientific data collected by the network will be used by network members for research purposes and can also be requested by interested parties.

 

General Objective of PARN:

Promote the development and advancement of research studies in all fields of astronomy in the Philippines.

 

Specific Objectives of PARN:

  • Conduct scientific research studies in astronomy, both in observational and theoretical areas.
  • Establish a mentorship program where interested individuals can be trained by network members who have expertise in a particular field of study.
  • Gather astronomical data from network members and non-members for research purposes.
  • Coordinate research endeavors with local and international astronomical organizations.