Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) observatory, the world’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, has inaugurate in Hanle, Ladakh, at an elevation surpassing 4,300 metres.
This facility is set to advance India’s role in space research and cosmic-ray studies, marking a new milestone in high-energy astrophysics.
This observatory aims to explore cosmic phenomena such as supernovae, black holes, and gamma-ray bursts.
Dr Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, officially inaugurate the MACE observatory.
The event, held during the DAE’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, include the opening of commemorative plaques, highlighting the telescope’s significance in India’s scientific community.
As per Dr Ajit Kumar Mohanty, the observatory’s capabilities will bolster international collaborations and elevate India’s role in multimessenger astronomy.
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) construct the MACE observatory in collaboration with the Electronics Corporation of India Limited with other Indian industry partners.
As Asia’s largest imaging Cherenkov telescope, the facility underscores the strength of indigenous engineering and technological capability in India.
Dr S M Yusuf, Director of the Physics Group at BARC, emphasize that the MACE telescope would greatly enhance India’s expertise in space and cosmic-ray research.
Additional Secretary Ajay Ramesh Sule address the local community and students, encouraging them to consider careers in science and technology, especially within the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR), where the MACE observatory is located.
This event also include the release of a pictorial compilation capturing the journey of the MACE project with a felicitation ceremony for Hanle’s village leaders, school headmaster, and lama of the Hanle Gompa, honouring their support for the initiative.
The MACE telescope’s advance imaging capability will contribute to global high-energy gamma-ray observation.
MACE will help in expanding understanding of cosmic phenomena.
Dr Ajit Kumar Mohanty said that this observatory will help align India’s research with international efforts, positioning the nation as a leader in high-energy astrophysics.
