The Hong Kong Observatory was open to the public on March 21 and 22. Around 10,000 people of all ages visited the Observatory headquarters.

Every year, the Observatory organises an Open Day to celebrate the World Meteorological Day on March 23. This year, the theme of World Meteorological Day is "Weather, climate and the Air We Breathe". It is the air we breathe, that is, the atmosphere in which we experience weather and climate. The theme of World Meteorological Day this year reminds us that air is not to be taken for granted. If we mishandle it, weather and climate would change. The consequences could be serious, impacting on the survival of numerous species including human beings.

The theme of the open day this year is "High Tech for the Community". Cutting-edge equipment developed or adopted by the Observatory were exhibited. These included the Automatic Upper-air Sounding System, the lightning sensor and the Windshear and Turbulence Warning System for the airport. The game booths and eco-tour also attracted crowds of visitors.

A visitor Mr Pang said, "The open day lets me understand more of the Observatory's equipment and services. The eco-tour and games were suitable for all ages."

The Director of Hong Kong Observatory, Mr Lam Chiu-ying, autographed for the new book "Weathering the Storms" during the open day. Many people queued for his autograph and pictured with him.

Apart from Observatory staff, more than sixty "Friends of the Observatory" members volunteered to man the open day this year and enjoyed a happy weekend with the visitors.