The recently-closed astronomical observatory in Taif has become home to a variety of wild animals since staff vacated the premises, turning a landmark building and center of research into a den for furry fauna. The observatory building has been a symbol and source of pride in the area for over 30 years, and now locals are calling upon authorities to restore the remarkable cultural edifice to its former glory. Local residents Muhammad and Fayez Al-Maliki say that until recently the observatory was a buzzing center of activity with foreign staff from the operating company busy round the clock conducting surveys of the skies and weather prognostications. “It has all changed now,” say the Al-Malikis. “It has been left deserted, and rodents and beasts have taken over. It's a real shame.” Abdul Aziz Al-Shemeri, an astronomer at King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology says the harsh climate, especially the fog and the rains which fall for four months continuously, were responsible for the closure of the observatory. “There's also the difficult road up to the site. All these factors have been influential in forcing astronomers to leave,” Al-Shemeri adds. Al-Shemeri is urging universities and regional academic authorities to reopen the observatory and resume its work in climatic research and astronomical studies. Abdul Al-Rahman Al-Maliki, education observer at the Taif Educational Zone, describes the closure as a great loss to the community and to science, but there is hope, however, in that Dr. Abdulillah Banaja, President of Taif University, has promised to consider the possibility of working together with King Abdul Aziz City for Science and Technology to let the observatory function under the university's authority. – Okaz/SG __
