Lenghu astronomy hub in China once thrived on oil. Workers battled fierce winds and thin air to fuel the nation’s industry. The “fourth largest oilfield” drew thousands to this Gobi Desert frontier. However, today the same winds sweep mountaintops filled with telescopes, marking a bold shift from black gold to starlight.
Eventually, the Lenghu astronomy hub faced a turning point as its oil wells ran dry. Consequently, the population dropped sharply and abandoned buildings told stories of a gritty past. Yet, in this remote corner of the Qaidam Basin, local leaders refused to accept decline. Instead, they searched for a new path forward. Then, during one chance night-time survey, they discovered Lenghu’s dazzling, unpolluted skies. As a result, this moment sparked the vision for a new Lenghu astronomy hub, one that looked to the stars instead of the ground.
Soon afterward, officials invited experts to survey Serteng Mountain, a high peak above the town. The site proved ideal since it offered over 300 clear nights each year. Therefore, the Lenghu astronomy hub quickly became a magnet for research institutions. In addition, authorities approved funding for new projects and carved a winding road to the mountaintop. Moreover, helicopters carried heavy telescope parts, which significantly sped up the transformation.
Eventually, the flagship project emerged, the Wide Field Survey Telescope, nicknamed Mozi. This powerful instrument began operations and immediately discovered thousands of supernovae. Furthermore, it created Asia’s largest database for supernova observations. Today, researchers at the Lenghu astronomy hub use it to study black holes, variable stars, and cosmic events that change rapidly.
At present, 45 telescopes from universities and observatories operate in Lenghu. As a result, investments have reached billions of yuan, turning the area into a thriving science hub. Nevertheless, with this success came a challenge, protecting the “golden darkness” that makes astronomy possible.
Globally, light pollution has already forced many observatories to relocate. To prevent such a fate, Lenghu’s local government introduced China’s first dark sky protection law. Consequently, the rules now strictly limit light brightness, beam direction, and color across the 17,800-square-kilometer reserve. In addition, businesses must follow strict approval processes, while some energy projects relocated to protect the skies.
Thanks to these decisive measures, the Lenghu astronomy hub has preserved its most valuable resource, a dark, clear night sky. Therefore, astronomers can continue exploring the universe for decades to come. Moreover, the town now serves as a model for blending science, conservation, and sustainable development.
Ultimately, from oil derricks to cosmic discovery, Lenghu’s journey proves the power of reinvention. With unmatched conditions for stargazing, the Lenghu astronomy hub is on track to become one of the largest astronomical centers in the world. Now, the phrase “golden darkness” not only defines its identity but also shapes its future.
