DATA-BASED OPERATION PLAN FOR CHILGAPSAN OBSERVATORY
In this study, quantitative analysis is attempted on data collected from Chilgapsan Observatory Star Park in Cheongyang-gun, Chungcheongnam-do. The aim of this experimental study in which quantitative analysis of the Astronomical Science Museum in Korea is conducted is to investigate its current situation and secure basic data. As of July 31, 2023, it has had 283,931 cumulative visitors in total. It had the largest number of visitors when it opened (2009 year), after which their number reduced steadily until the pandemic (COVID-19, 2020–2022). Recently, however, the number of visitors has increased. Generally, the number of visitors is highest in August (20.8$\%$) and least in April (4.1$\%$). The visit rate is higher on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) than on weekdays (Monday–Friday), and groups comprise only about 5.3$\%$ of the total number of visitors. Moreover, it can be confirmed that the number of visitors increases sharply during events. Finally, it was confirmed that the visit rate was unaffected by weather conditions. Considering these results, we propose the following strategies: 1) Establish a special program that reflects “the weekend effect.” 2) Prepare a plan to attract group visitors during the weekdays using “the event effect.” 3) Arrange alternative programs (e.g., experiential activities) that can be conducted indoors regardless of weather conditions. We think that our findings will help establish a roadmap for the direction the Astronomical Science Museum should take and aid in preparing a strategic foundation to preemptively respond to unexpected situations (e.g., pandemics).