China began building its first advanced submillimeter telescope on Saturday. The Purple Mountain Observatory leads this astronomical project in Delingha, Qinghai Province. Scientists selected the 4,800-meter altitude site for its low water vapor and minimal interference. The 15-meter diameter facility will complete construction by 2027. This telescope addresses a significant gap in China's space observation capabilities.
Submillimeter waves penetrate cosmic dust that blocks traditional optical telescopes. The new instrument will detect cold gases and molecules hidden throughout space. Researchers plan to study galaxy formation, stellar birth processes, and cosmic chemistry. The telescope will examine the Milky Way structure and monitor celestial events over time. Scientists expect the facility to reveal molecular origins connected to life across the universe.
The completed telescope will join the global Event Horizon Telescope network. This partnership allows astronomers to capture dynamic black hole images using Earth-sized virtual telescope arrays. The project strengthens China's position in international astronomical research. The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau location provides ideal atmospheric conditions for sensitive observations.
Submillimeter waves penetrate cosmic dust that blocks traditional optical telescopes. The new instrument will detect cold gases and molecules hidden throughout space. Researchers plan to study galaxy formation, stellar birth processes, and cosmic chemistry. The telescope will examine the Milky Way structure and monitor celestial events over time. Scientists expect the facility to reveal molecular origins connected to life across the universe.
The completed telescope will join the global Event Horizon Telescope network. This partnership allows astronomers to capture dynamic black hole images using Earth-sized virtual telescope arrays. The project strengthens China's position in international astronomical research. The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau location provides ideal atmospheric conditions for sensitive observations.
