A latest sudden frost graced high-altitude peaks in Chile, dusting the Southern Astrophysical Analysis (SOAR) Telescope with a fragile layer of snow.
What’s it?
The 13.4 foot (4.1 meter) telescope has been a serious hub for researchers within the Southern Hemisphere utilizing optical and near-infrared astronomy to review the celebrities. In accordance with NOIRLab, the telescope was initiated in 1987 by the College of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. It is run by a global consortium which incorporates Brazil, Chile, Michigan State College and the College of North Carolina.
Solely a brief distance away on the identical peak is the Gemini South telescope, which additionally seems to be on the stars in each seen and infrared wavelengths.
The place is it?
The SOAR Telescope sits on the height of Cerro Pachón, a part of the Chilean Andes mountain vary.
Why is it superb?
Not too long ago, a uncommon winter storm swept throughout the Atacama desert, bringing snow to the driest place on Earth. Whereas the occasion created a lovely panorama, its impression various among the many observatories situated within the distant a part of Chile.
For the SOAR telescope, excessive up within the Chilean Andes, the snow was a mild dusting that coated the observatory, making for some gorgeous photographs.
Nonetheless, decrease down in elevation, the Atacama Giant Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) facility at Chajnantor Plateu confronted extra extreme circumstances, forcing all scientific operations to be suspended since June 26, 2025. ALMA’s distant location and reliance on delicate electronics made it particularly susceptible to climate extremes, even transient ones.
Need to be taught extra?
You’ll be able to learn extra about telescopes like SOAR and astronomy occurring within the Atacama desert.
