A 1.9-meter optical telescope with ultra-high resolution is set to be installed on the Pamir Plateau to explore deep space.
Muztagh Observatory on the Pamir Plateau in Xinjiang. (Photo: Xinhua).
According to the Xinjiang Astronomical Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the new telescope will be located at the Muztagh Observatory in Akto County, southern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. At an altitude of 4,520 meters above sea level, its best viewing capability can reach 0.4 arc seconds, CGTN reported on February 27.
Wang Na, Director of the Xinjiang Astronomical Observatory, stated that the Pamir Plateau is one of the most ideal locations for major astronomical projects. This area is dry and cold year-round, with rainfall often less than 2mm during winter, and the towering Kongur Peak helps block light pollution from cities.
“The excellent optical observation conditions at Muztagh are quite rare in China and can be compared to world-class optical observatories,” Wang emphasized.
The 1.9-meter telescope is being co-developed by Beijing Normal University, the Nanjing Institute of Astronomical and Optical Technology, Xinjiang University, and the Xinjiang Astronomical Observatory. This is one of the largest optical telescopes in China, expected to become operational by June 2024.
The ultra-high resolution and optical accuracy of the device will significantly aid in deep space exploration, gravitational wave research, high-energy neutrino observation, near-Earth object monitoring, and exoplanet searches. The telescope can also be used for educational purposes.
In the future, the Xinjiang Astronomical Observatory aims to fully leverage the observational conditions and geographical advantages of the Pamir Plateau to attract even more major astronomical projects and develop the Muztagh Observatory into a key scientific facility in southern Xinjiang. This move is part of China’s ongoing efforts to enhance its astronomical capabilities to become a leading nation in space exploration.
