Teluk Kemang Observatory

Teluk Kemang Observatory sits on the coast at Port Dickson, in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, where the country's largest public telescope tracks both the stars and the crescent moon that marks the Islamic calendar.

About Teluk Kemang Observatory

Part of the Baitul Hilal complex overlooking the Strait of Malacca, Teluk Kemang Observatory is built around a 24-inch telescope, the largest of its kind in Malaysia. Alongside astronomical research and public outreach, the observatory has a religious role: it is a key site for sighting the crescent moon (hilal) that determines the start of Ramadan, Shawwal, and other dates on the Islamic calendar.

History

The observatory was established in 2012 as part of Malaysia's efforts to combine modern instrumentation with traditional moon-sighting practice, giving religious authorities a scientifically equipped vantage point on the coast.

Telescopes & research

Its 24-inch telescope supports both night-time astronomical observation and daytime solar and lunar viewing, making it one of the more versatile public instruments in Southeast Asia.

Location & getting there

Teluk Kemang Observatory sits on the Port Dickson coastline in Negeri Sembilan, an easy drive from the town centre and a popular stretch of coast for both stargazing and sea views.

Visiting Teluk Kemang Observatory

The observatory is open to the public Monday to Saturday from 09:00 to midnight, and Sunday from 09:00 to 24:00. For current visiting arrangements, call the observatory directly on +60-6-6487888.

See your named star from here

Once you have named a star through Star Register, its exact coordinates are yours to explore. Ask staff at Teluk Kemang Observatory or any dedicated site to help point a telescope its way, or find it yourself with our star packages and the catalogue.