China has unveiled a powerful new telescope in Antarctica, aiming to unlock the secrets of our galaxy.
The Three Gorges Antarctic Eye, a 3.2-meter aperture radio and millimeter-wave telescope, was officially launched at China’s Zhongshan Station in Antarctica on April 3. Co-developed by China Three Gorges University (CTGU) and Shanghai Normal University (SHNU), the telescope marks a significant step forward in Antarctic astronomy.
The telescope has begun observing the Milky Way’s neutral hydrogen and ammonia molecular spectral lines. These observations are crucial for scientists trying to understand how stars form and how interstellar gas behaves.
“This telescope has overcome key technical challenges in building observatories in Antarctica,” said Zhang Yi, an associate professor at SHNU and a member of China’s Antarctic expedition team. “It lays the groundwork for future advanced telescopes in Antarctica.”
Antarctica’s extreme cold and strong winds make it a tough place to install sensitive equipment. “The harsh environment posed significant challenges for the development and installation of radio telescopes,” explained Zeng Xiangyun, an associate professor at CTGU.
Since 2023, researchers from CTGU and SHNU have worked together to adapt the telescope to withstand the sub-zero temperatures and fierce winds of Antarctica. Over the past two years, they have overcome key technical hurdles to make astronomy in such extreme conditions possible.
“The successful operation of the Three Gorges Antarctic Eye showcases our achievements in polar research equipment,” said He Weijun, the Party chief of CTGU. “It reflects the spirit of Chinese scientists pushing the boundaries of science and technology, as well as the vital role of universities in national innovation.”
With the telescope now operational, CTGU plans to send researchers to Zhongshan Station for on-site scientific expeditions. China has been steadily expanding its astronomical capabilities in Antarctica, taking advantage of the continent’s clear skies and ideal conditions for observing infrared and millimeter-wave signals.
The deployment of the Three Gorges Antarctic Eye builds on earlier initiatives, including the Antarctic Survey Telescopes (AST3) and other instruments. These efforts contribute to global studies of cosmic phenomena from one of the most remote locations on Earth.
