China is preparing to launch the Wide Field Survey Telescope (WFST) in September, a significant addition to the world of astronomy. The WFST, situated at the Lenghu astronomical observation base in Qinghai Province, boasts optimal stargazing conditions with its high altitude and minimal light pollution. The telescope’s primary mission is to explore and monitor dynamic celestial events and conduct time-domain astronomical research. It aims to detect faint and distant signals, such as galaxies beyond the Milky Way, galaxy clusters, and objects in the Kuiper Belt. The project, a collaboration between the University of Science and Technology of China and the Purple Mountain Observatory, commenced in July 2019.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Time-Domain Survey Facility: A specialized observatory equipped to monitor and study dynamic astronomical events over time, providing insights into the changing universe.
- Kuiper Belt: A region in the outer solar system that contains a vast number of small, icy objects and is home to Pluto and other dwarf planets.
- Lenghu Astronomical Observation Base: A high-altitude observatory located in Qinghai Province, China, known for its excellent conditions for astronomical observations due to clear skies and minimal light pollution.
- Purple Mountain Observtory: An astronomical research institution under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, playing a crucial role in advancing astronomy and space science in China.
- Solar System Objects: Refers to various celestial bodies within our solar system, including planets, moons, asteroids, and comets, which the WFST aims to detect and track for a comprehensive understanding of the solar system’s evolution.
