Summary
Herakas Observatory is an esteemed institution renowned for its dual role as a prestigious school and a fully functional observatory. Located in the mountainside near the town of Herakas in
Maressea, it stands as a beacon of knowledge, and sometimes as just a literal beacon in the dark. The Observatory is a highly selective, admitting only the most talented and dedicated students through a rigorous selection process.
Location
The town of Herakas is one of the larger settlements in Maressea, strategically positioned close to the borders of the neighbouring nations of
Gonde and
Hantau. This proximity to the tri-border region makes Herakas a crossroads of diverse ideas and cultures. The Observatory itself is nestled in the craggy mountains overlooking Herakas, providing an ideal vantage point for astronomical observation, with clear views of the night sky.
History
Herakas Observatory has existed for almost as long there has been a Herakas. The upper echelon of then relatively recented founded Maressea understood the importance of studies of the stars, and with the tri-border region being the only place in the nation with the sufficient peaks to build such an observatory on, the location being of paramount importance. Herakas was founded almost as an excuse to then build the observatory. Originally, it was just an observatory, drawing in the brightest minds of the region, but over time expanded to provide an educational facility for younger minds to develop and thrive in.
The Educational Institution
Structure
The respected teachers of the Herakas Observatory hold the title of
Akadimikon. Each Akadimikon is a master in their respective field. The Observatory's equivalent of a Headmaster is known as the
Akadikimikon Arkos
Admission
Admission to Herakas Observatory is highly competitive, with prospective students required to submit written applications demonstrating exceptional talent and strong passion for learning. Applicants must present their previous academic achievements, personal essays and, if possible, original research and projects. The selection committee, composed of the Akadikimons, evaluates each application meticulously.
Curriculum
Known for its elite academic program, which naturally primarily focuses on the sciences and mathematics, the Observatory also offers courses in other disciplines, ensuring a well-rounded education. As the foremost astronomical institution in the world, though, the Observatory offers specialised courses in niche subjects such as a celestial cartography and cosmological theories.
The Observatory
Facilities
The central structure is the Observation Tower, which within its domed roof houses the most technologically advanced telescoped in Axora. The Observatory complex contains vast libraries with some of the rarest scientific texts, and laboratories with state of the art equipment for further research purposes.
Focus
The Observatory is dedicated to systematic charting of the stars and celestial bodies, contributing to the most accurate celestial maps in the known world. The observations made of other celestial bodies also provide valuable intelligence regarding their effects on Axora itself. They also delve into the theories into the origin and structure of the cosmos, exploring the philosophical implications of the stars and potential worlds beyond.
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