The European Southern Observatory (ESO) recently made a historic move by burying a time capsule at the construction site of the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT), which is set to become the world’s largest visible and infrared light telescope. This exciting development marks a major milestone in the ongoing collaboration between ESO and Chile.
The time capsule was sealed back in 2017 when the construction of the ELT first began. It is filled with various tokens commemorating ESO staff and the strong partnership between the observatory and Chile. Among the treasures tucked away inside are mementos from Chilean authorities, including a plaque personally contributed by the then President of Chile, Michelle Bachelet Jeria. This plaque emphasizes the significance of the country’s skies to the entire world.
Stunning drawings created by talented Chilean children are also part of the time capsule. These drawings depict the vastness of the Universe, ESO telescopes, and the breathtaking landscapes of northern Chile. Additionally, the capsule contains photographs showcasing the dedicated ESO staff involved in this colossal project. A book describing the future scientific goals of the ELT was also carefully included.
The time capsule was permanently buried in the wall of the ELT dome situated on Cerro Armazones in the Chilean Atacama Desert. This astronomical site is of great significance to ESO as it is where the organization operates its Very Large Telescope. The time capsule itself is covered in an engraved hexagon, mirroring one of the ELT’s primary mirror segments.
Leading the event was ESO Council President Linda Tacconi and Vice-President Mirjam Lieshout-Vijverberg. Together, they oversaw the burial of the time capsule while a commemorative plaque was also installed nearby.
The ELT, scheduled for completion in 2028, promises to be a game-changer in the field of astronomy. Equipped with five separate mirrors, including the largest comprised of 798 individual hexagonal segments, the telescope will have the ability to capture significantly more light than current ground-based telescopes. This enhanced light-gathering capability will allow scientists to obtain clearer and sharper images, aiding in the search for extraterrestrial life and furthering our understanding of dark matter and dark energy.
Moreover, the ELT’s scientific goals are far-reaching. The telescope will enable extensive study of the solar system, exploration of exoplanets, investigation into black holes, and examination of the earliest stars and galaxies.
With the completion of this monumental telescope inching closer and closer, the burying of the time capsule serves as a poignant reminder of the collaboration, dedication, and dreams that lie beneath the surface of this groundbreaking project.
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