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The University of Tokyo launched the Atacama Observatory (TAO)built in the top of hill Chajmantor -located in the Antofagasta region- a 5,640 meters altitudewhich incorporates a 6.5 meter optical-infrared telescope who will dedicate himself to understanding the nature of the universe.
After 26 years of planning and construction, the TAO is officially the highest observatory in the world, being awarded the Guinness Prize. Besides, it is not far from the radio telescope SOULone of the largest astronomical projects in the world.
“Contains optics, sensors, electronics and mechanisms of the latest generation, but the unique altitude of 5,640 meters is what gives TAO such clarity of vision. At that altitude, there is little moisture in the atmosphere that affect your infrared vision”said the teacher Yuzuru Yoshiiwho directs the TAO project.
X @agencia_sinc | The Atacama Observatory (TAO)
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Only one in the world
Altitude is also a difficulty for astronomers working there, since the risk of altitude sickness is evident, especially at night. But for the teacher Takashi Miyataresponsible for the construction, the Arid environment and altitude pose many advantages.
“CAT It will be the only ground-based telescope in the world able to see clearly mid-infrared wavelengths. This area of the spectrum is extremely good for studying the environments surrounding starsincluding planet-forming regions,” Miyata highlighted.
More than one dozen observatories and radio observatories They are distributed throughout the north of Chile, most of them located in the regions of Antofagasta, Atacama and Coquimbowhich have 29 communes declared by decree as areas with scientific and research value for astronomical observation.
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