The Physics and Geophysics Study Programs of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA) at Tanjungpura University (Untan) once again took an active role in the annual Pesona Kulminasi 2024 event, held from September 21 to 23, 2024. This event was organized to celebrate the natural phenomenon of the solar culmination, which occurs annually in Pontianak, where the sun is positioned directly above the equator.
As part of the Community Service Program (PKM), the Physics and Geophysics Study Programs of Untan provided educational outreach to the public regarding the solar culmination phenomenon from a scientific perspective. This education is intended to enhance the community's understanding of this unique natural occurrence while also introducing the importance of physics and geophysics in studying such phenomena.
During the event, a team of lecturers and students from the Physics and Geophysics Study Programs conducted demonstrations of astronomical instruments, including telescopes and astronomy simulators. These tools were used to facilitate the public's direct understanding of the solar culmination phenomenon. Through the telescopes, visitors were able to safely observe the sun, while the simulators illustrated how the movement of the sun leads to the culmination in Pontianak.
In addition to the equipment demonstrations, the Physics and Geophysics team also hosted interactive Q&A sessions on other astronomical phenomena, allowing the public to learn more about various occurrences in the universe. The event received an enthusiastic response from visitors, particularly due to Pontianak’s unique geographical position on the equator, making the solar culmination a major annual attraction.
The Pesona Kulminasi 2024 event not only served as an opportunity to introduce natural phenomena scientifically but also represented Tanjungpura University's tangible contribution to improving scientific literacy in the community. Through the collaboration between universities and the public, it is hoped that the community will gain a better understanding of the importance of science in daily life, particularly in comprehending natural events like the solar culmination.
The Physics and Geophysics Study Programs of Untan are committed to continuing educational programs like this, supporting the enhancement of public knowledge, and strengthening the role of universities in the advancement of science and technology in West Kalimantan.