Looking At The Kamenskoe Plateau Observatory In Almaty

Sometimes the Soviets were interested in more than staring at the West. Way up on a hill (of course) sits a cute series of small observatories. The complex was founded in 1947, as part of the Fesenkov Astrophysical Institute.

One of the domed observatories. There are more observatories dotting the hill. Sprouting watchers.

Stepping inside. The base of a telescope is anchored through the floor. Up a flight, the Big Boy presents itself. Let's get cranking.

OK, just a minute to hand crank the old school, classic, wood slat dome.

In the base of one of the observatories is a makeshift gallery with a display of cool, old instruments. Looking a little Soviet 70's retro. Tuning into VOA when the boss isn't looking, no doubt.

Winter bliss on top of the mountain. A painting in the lobby of the institute.

Constructing A fantasy In Almaty

Plain, old construction fences in Almaty have sprouted fantastical scenes of verdant nature, epic landscapes, thick forests, anything to disguise the hum drum, dusty, dirty building projects that lie within. One is transported, maybe for a few seconds.

Typical construction project wrapping. While not fooling anybody, at least better than old style "Post No Bills" signage.

Mountain peaks and lush meadows. The pixelation of the people is drifting into the movie, Blow-Up, territory.

Real foreground, fake background. Not quite a seamless segue.

Kazakhstan highlights. Bursting blooms somewhere and endless wheat.

Quick hits. Real green again in the foreground, a sort of View-Master run through of breath-taking Kazakh scenery running along the background.

Details Of Almaty

Another town, another set of interesting things to record. At least to us. Maybe you also?

Some sort of "solarium" on the top floor of the Academy of Sciences building. Kind of a jungle vibe. It gets cold in the winter in Almaty. You do what you can to bring the tropics to you when you need them.

Floating things in a kiddie pool. Apparently, a fun game. Inflatable restaurant sign. Uninviting.

Back at the Academy of Sciences, the grand staircase to the Important Bust.

Unrelated images in the stairwell of the Military museum. Blue basement corridor at the Green Market.

Drained pool.

Formal wear dreams at a stall in the central market. Sneaking sculpture in late afternoon light.

Asleep amusement park ride. Waiting for opening, once dark arrives.

Action At Almaty's Kazakhfilm Studio

The Soviets were big film producers and they opened a studio in Almaty in 1934. It's still around today, hosting TV shows, making epic, period Silk Road-era tales. The studio complex itself is a modest affair, a group of production buildings, crafts shops, the usual setup.

Main headquarters, office building.

View to one on the studios. The walk is lined with little plaques, the Kazakhfilm Hall of Fame. A bust honoring Shaken Kenzhetaiuly Aimanov, considered the father of Kazakh cinematography. He also acted and directed. Bravo!

Loading dock area, full of worn patina. And a fading, Russian quote on the wall, something about decorative items.

A couple of fine mosaics adorn the main production offices, outside and in the lobby.

Talk show set.