Astronomical observatory site selection using fuzzy AHP and BWM methods

Abstract

Establishing an observatory often involves complex decisions, such as choosing a site based on multiple conicting criteria. In this study, we develop a multi-criteria decision analysis process by combining Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis with the (MCDA) Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis and use this process to determine the most suitable sites for the construction of an observatory in the Malatya urban area. GIS was used to calculate, classify, and analyze criteria, while FAHP (Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Processes, Buckley's method) and BWM(MCDA type Best-Worst Method) methods were used to weight the decision criteria and determine their effects on alternative sites. While the Cloud Cover criterion in the BWM method was the most important criterion with 28%, the most important criterion for the FAHP method had a comparable value of 27.8%. Meteorological criteria were the most important criteria group with values of 50.4% according to the FAHP method and 44.6% according to the BWM method. The study is based on meteorological, geographic, and anthropogenic datasets, suggesting the most appropriate sites for the astronomical observatory within the boundaries of the study area. The proposed sites are the result of site selection, which is the first phase of site selection for astronomical observatories. This site selection is important to limit the number of field alternatives. It is necessary to conduct field tests among the proposed areas and select the final site according to the results. The successful use of GIS and more than one MCDA method will pave the way for the development of various methods for astronomical observatory site determination.