International Exhibition RES 2026 “Falak: The Song of Water and Earth” Opens in Astana
On April 22, 2026, in Astana, within the framework of the Regional Environmental Summit 2026, the international art and science exhibition “Falak: The Song of Water and Earth” was officially opened. The exhibition addresses key issues of climate change, transformation of water resources, and sustainable development in Central Asia, and aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue between science, art, and society.
The conceptual framework of the exhibition is based on the interconnectedness of natural systems across the region. Central Asia is considered a unified geo-ecological space, where changes in glacier systems, hydrological regimes, and climate parameters have transboundary implications. In this context, the exhibition interprets environmental processes not only through scientific data but also through artistic practices that enable deeper understanding and reflection.
A significant component of the exhibition is the joint initiative of the UNESCO Regional Office in Almaty and the 91ý Kazakh National University. This initiative is aimed at demonstrating pressing issues related to water resources and glacier systems through modern technological solutions. In particular, an interactive VR complex is presented, allowing visitors to explore and better understand natural and anthropogenic processes.
Using virtual reality technologies, users are guided through several thematic locations, each reflecting specific aspects of hydrological and glaciological processes. The virtual environment recreates a high-mountain glacier setting, demonstrating field measurement techniques, including glacier mass balance assessment, monitoring of glacier retreat, and analysis of hydrometeorological parameters. In addition, the operation of water management dispatch centers is simulated, illustrating water regulation and distribution under changing climate conditions.

A separate section focuses on agricultural landscapes, showcasing modern irrigation systems and their role in ensuring regional water security. The final component includes an interactive learning environment where users complete tasks aimed at identifying the factors influencing the formation of glacial debris flows, such as temperature, precipitation, slope morphology, and the condition of glacial lakes.
Thus, the use of VR technologies not only enhances the visualization of complex natural processes but also contributes to a systemic understanding of the interconnections between climate change and hydrological risks. This format aligns with contemporary approaches to scientific communication and education, ensuring a high level of audience engagement.

The exhibition will run until April 24, 2026, at Mangilik El Avenue, 53/1, and serves as an important platform for strengthening international cooperation, raising environmental awareness, and promoting sustainable natural resource management.
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