MACE: Asia’s largest and world’s highest imaging Cherenkov Observatory inaugurated in Ladakh
| 2024-10-09
The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory is located at Hanle in Ladakh. (X/@DAEIndia)
The observatory’s advanced capabilities make it a critical asset in India’s cosmic-ray and astrophysics research portfolio
In a landmark achievement for Indian astrophysics and cosmic-ray research, the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory was inaugurated at Hanle, Ladakh last week. The observatory is the largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia and the highest of its kind globally, located at an altitude of approximately 4,300 meters above sea level.
The MACE telescope, indigenously built by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) with support from Electronics Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL) and other Indian industry partners, marks a significant milestone in India’s scientific journey. The inauguration on October 4, 2024 was part of the Department of Atomic Energy’s (DAE's) Platinum Jubilee celebrations, underscoring the country's commitment to advancing scientific research and technology development.
The MACE telescope is a 21-meter diameter imaging Cherenkov telescope designed for precision and efficiency. At its high-altitude location, the telescope uses an integrated imaging camera containing 1,088 photomultiplier-based pixels, enabling it to capture and process data efficiently.
With its wheel and track design allowing for ±270-degree azimuthal movement, the telescope’s structure is a marvel of engineering. It stands 43 meters tall and weighs approximately 170 tonnes, including the 25-tonne mirror panels and their motion control systems. This state-of-the-art setup will allow Indian scientists to capture and analyze high-energy gamma-ray emissions, contributing valuable data to international cosmic-ray research efforts.
The observatory’s advanced capabilities make it a critical asset in India’s cosmic-ray and astrophysics research portfolio. The data collected will contribute to global scientific efforts aimed at exploring the universe's most energetic and mysterious events. Situated at a high altitude in the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR), the MACE telescope benefits from minimal atmospheric interference, enabling clear and precise observations.
During the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission,highlighted the monumental achievement represented by the MACE Observatory. He emphasized its role in positioning India at the forefront of cosmic-ray research worldwide. “The MACE Observatory is not just a technological triumph for India; it is a step forward in our understanding of the universe’s most energetic phenomena,” he said.
Beyond its scientific objectives, the MACE project also plays a significant role in promoting the socio-economic development of Ladakh. In his address, Dr. Mohanty stressed the importance of engaging with local communities and encouraging students in Ladakh to pursue careers in astronomy and astrophysics. “The MACE project is not only about advancing scientific research but also about building opportunities for the people of Ladakh,” he noted, expressing hope that the observatory would inspire the next generation of Indian scientists and engineers.
He also paid tribute to India’s legacy in cosmic-ray research, recognizing the pioneering work of Dr. Homi J. Bhabha, whose contributions continue to inspire developments in the field. The event also saw the unveiling of commemorative plaques and the release of a special pictorial compilation documenting the journey of the MACE project.
The inauguration of the MACE telescope marks a significant leap forward for India in the field of multi-messenger astronomy. This facility, with its capability to observe and analyze high-energy gamma rays, will complement global observatories, further solidifying India’s role in the international scientific community.
Looking ahead, the MACE project is expected to foster international collaborations, enhancing India’s contributions to space and cosmic-ray research. The observatory will not only provide crucial insights into cosmic events but also serve as a training ground for young Indian scientists, encouraging them to explore new frontiers in astrophysics.
With the MACE Observatory now operational, India has established a strong foothold in advanced astronomy, promising a future where the nation contributes significantly to unraveling the mysteries of the universe.
The MACE telescope, indigenously built by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) with support from Electronics Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL) and other Indian industry partners, marks a significant milestone in India’s scientific journey. The inauguration on October 4, 2024 was part of the Department of Atomic Energy’s (DAE's) Platinum Jubilee celebrations, underscoring the country's commitment to advancing scientific research and technology development.
The MACE telescope is a 21-meter diameter imaging Cherenkov telescope designed for precision and efficiency. At its high-altitude location, the telescope uses an integrated imaging camera containing 1,088 photomultiplier-based pixels, enabling it to capture and process data efficiently.
With its wheel and track design allowing for ±270-degree azimuthal movement, the telescope’s structure is a marvel of engineering. It stands 43 meters tall and weighs approximately 170 tonnes, including the 25-tonne mirror panels and their motion control systems. This state-of-the-art setup will allow Indian scientists to capture and analyze high-energy gamma-ray emissions, contributing valuable data to international cosmic-ray research efforts.
The observatory’s advanced capabilities make it a critical asset in India’s cosmic-ray and astrophysics research portfolio. The data collected will contribute to global scientific efforts aimed at exploring the universe's most energetic and mysterious events. Situated at a high altitude in the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR), the MACE telescope benefits from minimal atmospheric interference, enabling clear and precise observations.
During the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission,highlighted the monumental achievement represented by the MACE Observatory. He emphasized its role in positioning India at the forefront of cosmic-ray research worldwide. “The MACE Observatory is not just a technological triumph for India; it is a step forward in our understanding of the universe’s most energetic phenomena,” he said.
Beyond its scientific objectives, the MACE project also plays a significant role in promoting the socio-economic development of Ladakh. In his address, Dr. Mohanty stressed the importance of engaging with local communities and encouraging students in Ladakh to pursue careers in astronomy and astrophysics. “The MACE project is not only about advancing scientific research but also about building opportunities for the people of Ladakh,” he noted, expressing hope that the observatory would inspire the next generation of Indian scientists and engineers.
He also paid tribute to India’s legacy in cosmic-ray research, recognizing the pioneering work of Dr. Homi J. Bhabha, whose contributions continue to inspire developments in the field. The event also saw the unveiling of commemorative plaques and the release of a special pictorial compilation documenting the journey of the MACE project.
The inauguration of the MACE telescope marks a significant leap forward for India in the field of multi-messenger astronomy. This facility, with its capability to observe and analyze high-energy gamma rays, will complement global observatories, further solidifying India’s role in the international scientific community.
Looking ahead, the MACE project is expected to foster international collaborations, enhancing India’s contributions to space and cosmic-ray research. The observatory will not only provide crucial insights into cosmic events but also serve as a training ground for young Indian scientists, encouraging them to explore new frontiers in astrophysics.
With the MACE Observatory now operational, India has established a strong foothold in advanced astronomy, promising a future where the nation contributes significantly to unraveling the mysteries of the universe.
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