Mercusuar Pulau Sarangalu

The Mercusuar Pulau Sarangalu is a historic lighthouse located on Sarangalu Island in Pulau Banyak Barat, Aceh Singkil, Aceh, Sumatra, Indonesia.

History

1. The construction of the lighthouse began in 1906 and was completed by 1910. The tower has served as an important aid to navigation for mariners traversing the waters off Sarangalu Island.

Architecture

The Mercusuar Pulau Sarangalu is a 25-meter-tall (82 ft) stone tower with a distinctive square base. The lighthouse features a characteristic octagonal lantern room at its summit, housing a first-order Fresnel lens. The structure was built using local materials, including limestone and wood.

Light Characteristics

The Mercusuar Pulau Sarangalu emits a fixed white light from its lantern room, visible up to 20 nautical miles (37 km) out to sea. The light's pattern is not specified in the available data.

Current Status

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, although it has been automated. It continues to guide mariners safely through the waters off Sarangalu Island.

Location and Accessibility

Sarangalu Island Lighthouse is situated on Pulau Banyak Barat, approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the mainland. The island can be reached by boat or ferry from nearby towns.

Heritage Status

The Mercusuar Pulau Sarangalu has been designated as a national monument in Indonesia, recognizing its historical significance and importance to maritime navigation.

Notable Historical Events

1. During World War II, the lighthouse played a crucial role in guiding Allied forces through the waters off Sarangalu Island. The tower's light was instrumental in helping ships navigate safely through the area, despite being under Japanese occupation at the time.