Why in the News
Rising Light Pollution and proposed energy projects have raised concerns about the degradation of the pristine night skies in the Atacama Desert, one of the world’s most important hubs for astronomical research.
What is Light Pollution
- Light pollution refers to excessive or misdirected artificial light that brightens the night sky and interferes with astronomical observations and ecosystems.
Key Facts
- The Atacama Desert is located in Chile
- Known as the driest place on Earth
- Receives over 300 clear nights per year
- High altitude often exceeding 3000 metres
- Covers around 105000 sq km
Why is Atacama ideal for Astronomy?
- Extremely dry climate reduces atmospheric disturbance
- High altitude ensures clearer observation
- Minimal light pollution due to isolation
- Hosts some of the world’s largest ground based telescopes
Major Astronomical Facilities
- European Southern Observatory operates key observatories
- Paranal Observatory is a major site
- Extremely Large Telescope
- Cost about 1.5 billion dollars
- Expected completion by 2030
- Features 798 mirrors
- Around 20 times more powerful than current telescopes
- Compared with Hubble Space Telescope
- Around 15 times sharper resolution
| [2017] What is the purpose of ‘evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA)’ project? (a) To detect neutrinos (b) To detect gravitational waves (c) To detect the effectiveness of missile defence system (d) To study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems |
