Mumbai, (January 23, 2025):The Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) has launched a landmark initiative to digitize over 180 years of continuous geomagnetic observations from the historic Colaba Observatory and its successor in Alibaug.
The project, inaugurated by DST Secretary Abhay Karandikar, marks a significant milestone in geomagnetic research. The Colaba Observatory, operational since 1841 and continuously recording data since 1846, relocated to Alibaug in 1900 due to interference from electric tramlines in Mumbai. Combined, the observatories hold one of the longest datasets on Earth’s geomagnetic field, including records of the Carrington Event of 1859, one of the largest solar storms in history.
The digitization initiative, managed by the newly inaugurated Colaba Research Centre, will transform historical records such as magnetograms, microfilms, and volumes into accessible digital formats. This treasure trove of data will serve as a benchmark for space weather prediction and environmental monitoring while advancing studies on Earth’s magnetosphere and space weather phenomena.
The IIG operates 13 observatories across India and maintains the World Data Centre for Geomagnetism, supporting global research. By studying the geomagnetic field, particles in Earth’s magnetosphere, and environmental impacts, the IIG plays a pivotal role in safeguarding Earth’s biosphere and forecasting geomagnetic activity.
This initiative underscores India’s commitment to advancing geomagnetic and space research, paving the way for new discoveries and better preparedness against space weather events.
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