The Thirty-Meter Telescope (TMT) project, situated atop the dormant volcano Mauna Kea in Hawaii, has been a focal point of contention since its inception in 2014. With India, one of the key partners, proposing a relocation of the site, the future development of the venture comes under scrutiny.
India’s Proposal for Changing Location
Numerous obstacles and regular interruptions have halted the progress of the TMT project. Moreover, the current location on Mauna Kea is deemed sacred by indigenous Hawaiians and is already home to a multitude of observatories. Because of these issues, India has proposed to move the project to an alternative site.
The Proposed Alternate Site
The Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos (ORM), located on La Palma in the Canary Islands, Spain, has been presented as a suitable replacement for Mauna Kea.
Why was Mauna Kea Chosen Initially?
The dormant volcanic site boasts stable weather conditions and optimal imaging possibilities, making it an excellent spot for telescope installation. The site’s already existing infrastructure that supports other telescopes on the volcano also contributed to the initial choice.
India’s Involvement in the TMT Project
India has pledged $200 million towards the TMT project, accounting for about a tenth of the estimated cost. Specifically, India is tasked with supplying 83 out of the required 492 precisely polished mirrors for the telescope. In recognition of this contribution, Indian scientists will receive 10% of available viewing slots on the telescope in 2020.
Features of the Thirty Meter Telescope
The TMT holds immense potential to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. It will enable scientists to study faint celestial objects in unprecedented detail, offering insights into the early development of the universe. The telescope boasts a substantial 30m prime mirror diameter, making it three times as broad and covering nine times more area than the largest existing visible-light telescope in the world.
A Joint Venture
The TMT project is a joint venture between USA, Japan, China, India, and Canada.
Key Facts about the TMT Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Diameter of Prime Mirror | 30 meters |
| Number of Precisely Polished Mirrors Needed | 492 |
| India’s Contribution | $200 million |
| Proposed Alternate Site | Observatorio del Roque de los Muchachos, Canary Islands, Spain |