Hải Đăng Ba Động

Location and Accessibility

The Hải Đăng Ba Động is situated on the island of Hoàng Sa, located off the coast of Vietnam.

History

The lighthouse was constructed in 1934 as part of a series of coastal defense structures to protect the island from potential threats. Its primary function has been to serve as a navigational aid for mariners and fishermen navigating the waters around Hoàng Sa.

Architecture

The Hải Đăng Ba Động is a traditional lighthouse design, featuring a cylindrical tower with a distinctive lantern room at its summit. The structure was built using local materials, including stone and wood.

Tower Height and Focal Height

The tower height of the Hải Đăng Ba Động is 20 meters (66 feet), while the focal height is 25 meters (82 feet).

Light Characteristics

The lighthouse emits a fixed white light with a range of approximately 10 nautical miles (18.5 km). The light pattern is reported to be a rotating beam.

Current Status

The Hải Đăng Ba Động remains an active aid to navigation, although its status as a fully automated lighthouse is not confirmed.

Heritage Status

The structure has been recognized for its historical significance and is reportedly listed on the Vietnam National Heritage List.

Notable Historical Events

1. During World War II, the lighthouse played a role in the defense of Hoàng Sa against Japanese forces. The island was occupied by Japan from 1941 to 1945, and the lighthouse continued to operate during this period.