China launches Antarctic telescope for Milky Way research

China launches Antarctic telescope for Milky Way research signifying its continuing growth in technology and innovation.

China has introduced a new 3.2-meter aperture radio/millimeter-wave telescope, known as the Three Gorges Antarctic Eye, at its Zhongshan scientific research station in Antarctica.

Jointly developed by China Three Gorges University (CTGU) and Shanghai Normal University (SHNU), the telescope was officially launched on April 3, marking another milestone in China’s Antarctic astronomy efforts.

According to CTGU, the telescope has started its scientific work by observing spectral lines of neutral hydrogen and ammonia in the Milky Way, which are critical for understanding interstellar gas movements and how stars form.

Zhang Yi, an SHNU associate professor and member of China’s Antarctic research team, stated that the telescope overcame significant technical barriers in constructing observatories in Antarctica, paving the way for future submillimeter-wave telescopes.

He further explained that the telescope will enable expanded observation across radio and low-frequency millimeter-wave bands, enhancing the development of next-generation astronomical tools for polar research.

Zeng Xiangyun, an associate professor at CTGU, highlighted the engineering difficulties posed by Antarctica’s extreme weather conditions, including intense cold and strong winds, which challenge telescope installation and operation.

Since 2023, CTGU and SHNU have worked together to resolve these environmental challenges, successfully adapting equipment for sub-zero temperatures and high winds over the past two years.

He Weijun, Party secretary at CTGU, underscored the importance of the project, calling it a testament to the university’s contributions to polar research technology.

He emphasized that the telescope’s successful deployment symbolizes both Chinese scientists’ pursuit of scientific excellence and the role of academic institutions in fostering national innovation.

Once the telescope achieves stable operations, CTGU intends to send researchers to Antarctica’s Zhongshan Station to carry out in-person scientific studies.

China continues to expand its capabilities in polar astronomy, taking advantage of Antarctica’s ideal atmospheric conditions for infrared and millimeter-wave research.

The launch of the Three Gorges Antarctic Eye builds on earlier Chinese initiatives, such as the Antarctic Survey Telescopes (AST3), further bolstering international efforts to explore the universe from Earth’s southernmost region.