The Most Powerful Eye in the Universe is Now Watching from Latin America (and You Won’t Believe What It Can See)
They could be exposed, thanks to a monumental work that is being built in . There, in the middle of the Chilean desert, the was built. Its power not only promises unprecedented images, but also turns the region into the epicenter of global astronomical exploration.
A technological giant in the middle of the desert
The was built at the Cerro Armazones Observatory in northern Chile. This colossal machine, led by the , will have a primary mirror of 39 meters in diameter composed of 798 hexagonal segments. It is an unprecedented design, with the ability to capture 13 times more light than current telescopes and with a precision that will allow to see objects 25 times smaller.
Located in one of the cleanest and most clear skies on the planet, this telescope completely transforms the ability of astronomers to observe exoplanets, study distant galaxies, and analyze dark matter.
What can be seen from the ELT
Once operational, the ELT will not only allow detailed views of star and planet formation, but also detect atmospheres of worlds beyond the solar system. will reduce distortions from Earth’s atmosphere, offering images almost as sharp as those from space. This will open the door to answering one of humanity’s great questions: are we alone?
In addition, , study cosmic expansion, and observe extreme phenomena like supermassive black holes. It will be, in short, a time machine capable of looking into the most remote past of the cosmos.
, which would come into operation in this decade, not only represents a monumental scientific advance, but also a source of pride for all of Latin America, which is consolidating itself as a key territory in the race to decipher the universe’s enigmas.
