The European Southern Observatory ( ESO ) is making progress in developing the largest optical telescope in the world, the Extremely Large Telescope ( ELT ). This device is located on Cerro Armazones, in the heart of the Atacama Desert, Chile.
A view of ELT from above
Last November 2024, the impressive progress of the ELT construction is on display. The dome structure, which will house the telescope, is already complete and is currently being covered. Inside, the honeycomb structure that will support the main mirror stands out, which will have a diameter of 39 meters, making it the largest ever built.
In addition to the main mirror, the design includes a central tower that will house three of the five mirrors that make up this unprecedented optical system. This architecture will enable observations of unique precision , with applications ranging from the study of exoplanets to the exploration of the first galaxies in the universe.
The Atacama Desert was chosen for its exceptionally dry and stable atmosphere, ideal conditions for astronomy. This reaffirms Chile as a pillar in global astronomical research, hosting renowned projects such as the Very Large Telescope ( VLT ) and ALMA .
With each step in the construction of the ELT , the scientific community is moving closer to a new era in the study of the cosmos. This telescope promises to unravel mysteries yet to be discovered, consolidating ESO’s position as a leader in the exploration of the Universe.
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Source and photos: ESO
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