Secret Hanoi
Astronomy Park
Astronomy Park is in Duong Noi, Ha Dong, Hanoi, near Nguyen Van Luyen street. It is also known locally as Cong vien Thien van hoc.
Field Notes
It hides out in the western suburbs of Ha Noi. Maybe 15km from the Old Quarter, which means a one-hour Grab ride in rush hour. Might be a bit far, but if you are in the area (staying at JW Marriott, say, which is a much closer ride), it might be worth it. It is a park around a reservoir. It's a good place for a walk and a picnic under a shady tree. A couple of the tree groves start to feel like real jungle.
It gets its name from the displays of astronomy around the walking path in the park. Some are educational; some are a little more fun.
I was there at noon. It was almost empty. One family having a quiet lunch on a blanket in the shade. Apparently it picks up closer to sunset, which makes sense given the heat here.