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Ladakh Is Now Home To Asia’s Largest Cherenkov Telescope; The Sky Is No Longer The Limit For Stargazers 

The Cherenkov Telescope and the MACE observatory showcase India's advancements in the field of space research.

by Sanjana Shenoy
Ladakh Is Now Home To Asia’s Largest Cherenkov Telescope; The Sky Is No Longer The Limit For Stargazers 

Located at an altitude of 4,300 metres, the Union Territory of Ladakh now houses the world’s highest-imaging Cherenkov telescope. The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) observatory showcases India’s advancements in the field of space and cosmic-ray research. Here’s more about this observatory.

Ladakh Has World’s Highest MACE Observatory & Asia’s Largest Cherenkov Telescope

According to a report by The New Indian Express, Hanle in Ladakh, an attractive destination for stargazers and astronomers, has a new introduction for travellers— the MACE observatory. The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in collaboration with the Electronics Corporation of India Limited and other Indian industry partners have built it indigenously.

Dr Ajit Kumar Mohanty, secretary Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) stated to TNIE that this is the largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia. Dr Mohanty unveiled commemorative plaques during the inauguration ceremony of the observatory as part of the DAE’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

During the inauguration ceremony, a pictorial representation of the MACE project’s journey to completion was projected. Moreover, BARC’s Physics Group Director, Dr SM Yusuf spoke about the new telescope’s significance in advancing the nation’s capabilities in space research. The MACE telescope will help study phenomena like black holes, gamma-ray bursts and supernovae. It will help observe high-energy gamma rays, educating students of science, technology and astronomy.

Also Read: Uttarakhand’s Benital To Turn Into Astro Village With Large Telescopes & Astronomical Dome For Stargazing

Attracting Students, Researchers & Stargazers

Cherenkov Telescope
Picture Credits: Canva Pro

Mr Mohanty stressed that the MACE telescope will foster international collaborations and will further the country’s role in multimessenger astronomy. Additional Secretary Ajay Ramesh Sule spoke about balancing tourism and scientific activities at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR). He encouraged students to pursue careers in the fields of science and technology.

The dark sky and dry weather in Hanle are reasons why this destination is one of the best places in India for stargazing. Home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, visitors can look through professional telescopes and advance their astronomy fascinations. The sky is unaffected by light pollution and even the faintest celestial objects can be easily spotted and photographed.

Also Read: Experience A Starry, Starry Night At These Spots In AlUla, Saudi Arabia — An Ancient City With DarkSky Park Certification

Now that Hanle has Asia’s largest Cherenkov telescope, the sky is no longer the limit for astronomers.

Cover Image Courtesy: @DIPR_Leh/ X

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First Published: October 10, 2024 6:17 PM