Exploring the origin of the galaxy from Chile, the world's highest observatory at 5,640 meters, to be completed in April 2024
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The observatory will have a 6.5-meter (TAO telescope) and cutting-edge infrared observation equipment. It will be able to capture infrared light emitted by celestial bodies, observe heavenly bodies that emit wavelengths invisible to the human eye, and observe interstellar matter between stars.
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However, infrared light is weak because it is easily absorbed by water vapour in the atmosphere. To capture infrared light clearly, it is necessary to reduce the atmosphere between the ground and space as much as possible.
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That's why the Atacama Desert was chosen. In addition to its high altitude, it hardly ever rains, and the air is dry. It is less affected by water vapour, and it is said that observations can be made using a satellite at a level similar to that of a space telescope.
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The total construction cost is about 20 billion yen, and the observation operation building and telescope storage facility at the summit will be almost completed by the end of 2023. The telescope parts have already been transported and will be assembled on-site. Observations are expected to begin this fall.
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The "world's highest astronomical observatory," which the University of Tokyo has been developing for 26 years, will be completed at the end of April. The University of Tokyo Atacama Observatory (TAO) is located on the summit of Mt. Chajnantor (5,640 meters) in the Atacama Desert in Chile, South America.
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The large infrared telescope to be installed here will observe galaxies born at the beginning of the universe and explore the universe's mysteries, such as when and how galaxies were born.
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At first, it was criticized as a reckless plan, but I'm happy that the project is now in sight after a long time. When you try something frontier, you get criticized, but I think it's good that we have the mentality to bounce back." Professor Emeritus Yoshii Yuzuru of the University of Tokyo (galactic physics, photo), who has been involved in the project since its inception and is the project representative, looks back on the progress made so far.
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He adds, "My interest in observing extremely distant celestial bodies has allowed me to continue this project. I want to use this telescope to explore the universe's origins and galaxies."
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<Atacama Depression> This highland is located on northern Chile's Pacific side of the Andes. It has ideal weather conditions for astronomical observations, including dry air, a high rate of clear skies, and a stable atmosphere.
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Many large telescopes are installed in the area, which is over 4,800 meters above sea level, including the ALMA radio telescope operated by Japan, the United States, and Europe, Nagoya University's radio telescope NANTEN 2, and the National Astronomical Observatory's submillimeter telescope ASTE.
Exploring the origin of the galaxy from Chile, the world's highest observatory at 5,640 meters, to be completed in April 2024
https://www.tokyo-np.co.jp/article/308757
