Day Trip to the Solar Furnace from Tashkent offers travelers a unique opportunity to venture beyond Uzbekistan’s traditional historical attractions and explore one of the country’s most remarkable scientific achievements.
Located in the village of Parkent, east of Tashkent, the Physics-Sun Institute of Material Science is home to the impressive Big Solar Furnace, which operates with a capacity of 1,000 kW. As the second-largest solar furnace in the world, the facility continues to play a significant role in advanced scientific research and technological innovation.
During this trip, travelers will visit the vast field of heliostatic mirrors and a small museum dedicated to the history and operation of the complex. Guests will also have the opportunity to ascend the concentrator, observe demonstrations of materials being melted at extremely high temperatures, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
Tour Itinerary – Day Trip to the Solar Furnace from Tashkent
In the morning, meet your guide and driver at your hotel in Tashkent and depart for Parkent Village (60 km, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes one way). Upon arrival, visit the renowned Big Solar Furnace at the Physics-Sun Institute of Materials Science, commonly known as the Solar Institute of Uzbekistan. This remarkable facility is one of the most unique scientific landmarks inherited from the Soviet era.
Begin your guided tour of the institute’s Big Solar Furnace, an advanced technical complex comprising a solar concentrator, a technological tower, and thousands of specially designed mirrors (heliostats) that work together to generate and concentrate solar energy for scientific research and industrial applications.
During the visit, you will learn about the history, operation, and scientific significance of the facility, explore the heliostat field, visit the museum and observation areas, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The total duration of the excursion is approximately 4–5 hours, depending on the size of the group and the pace of the visit.