Oriented on making people closer

The Russian Geographical Society (RGS) plans to conduct several major expeditions in 2026, including to Central Asia. These studies, which will take place in Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, will become part of a large-scale program dedicated to the 200th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding researcher Pyotr Petrovich Semenov-Tyan-Shansky.

In the 19th century, the Semenov-Tyan-Shansky expedition to the Tien Shan (1856-1857) became a landmark event and made a huge contribution to world science. He was the first European researcher to study the Tien Shan mountain ranges in detail, making important discoveries in geography, geology and biology. In 1888, the scientist also traveled to the Transcaspian region and Turkestan, collecting extensive entomological collections and preparing a scientific article about the region. In 1906, by imperial decree, he received the prefix "Tian-Shan" to his surname for his services and contribution to the study of Central Asia.

Today, the Russian Geographical Society continues to study the scientist's legacy, updating it in the current geopolitical context. Central Asia is considered as a strategically important logistics hub that connects Russia, China and India. Key transport and energy corridors pass through here. Studying the climatic, ecological and social features of the region helps to develop solutions for sustainable development and reducing environmental risks, according to the RGS website.

In 2024, the first season of the expedition began, during which a group of scientists under the auspices of the Russian Geographical Society repeated part of the historical Semenov-Tyan-Shansky route from Bishkek to Karakol. Experts examined the traces of the largest earthquakes, analyzed rock samples and the dynamics of relief changes. In turn, the archaeologists studied medieval hillforts and an Orthodox monastery of the 19th century in order to trace their connection with the building traditions of neighboring regions.

The project unites the efforts of historians, geographers, ecologists and cultural scientists, which provides a comprehensive approach to the study of the region. During the expeditions, scientists will record the changes in the landscape that have occurred over the past century and a half.

The monograph "Historical and Cultural Atlas of the Semenov-Tyan-Shansky Expeditions" will be the result of the research. An interactive electronic map (Web GIS) with key places and toponyms along his travel routes will also be created. The historical routes mapped on modern maps will be useful for the development of tourism and local history. Thanks to the interactive map, visualization of the key points of the route will be accessible to a wide audience.

Thus, the planned expeditions are of great importance both for the scientific community and for anyone interested in the history and geography of Central Asia. They will help draw attention to its rich heritage, strengthen cooperation between scientists from different countries and mutual understanding between peoples.

ORIENT

Photo: rgo.ru