Observatory

Further up from Big Almaty Lake lies an old Soviet observatory which is mostly a relic of old times yet also continues research on a small scale.

The setting is stunning and it's difficult not to picture yourself in a Bond film when you're here. Especially with this kind of kit hanging around.

My father (James Bond) escaping on a ski-doo

I was thrilled by the sense of adventure here. Mountains, telescopes, satellite dishes, vehicles in various states of disrepair scattered around the site. A complex of buildings, also variously wrecked, and Soviet scientific manuals spread around like litter.

Comrades!
Economise on electricity
When leaving, turn out the lights.

There were guards further up the hill and we snuck around with a sense of mischief as we'd heard that we're not allowed to be there. We also tried unsuccessfully to find some people! Eventually we found a couple of very friendly scientists and had a look at one of the telescopes. Unfortunately we couldn't stay late enough to see the stars. There's always more to do. But I was just so happy to finally reach this fabled institute, which met and exceeded my expectations of adventure and excitement. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face!

Yes, I see it - a lovely ceiling! Hurray for mock ups.