Most Dangerous Transports - Giant Antenna Relocation
- last year
Most Dangerous Transports - Giant Antenna Relocation
The chelonian Atacama Desert is home to the world’s largest radio telescope: “Atacama Large Millimeter Array Observatory”, also known as: “ALMA”. In an altitude of 5,000 meters above sea level, astronomers find perfect conditions for observing the universe: almost no pollution, no artificial lights and very thin air. The most powerful telescope in the world can see an incredible ten billion light years. To the edge of the observable universe. Good for the scientists, bad for the engineers: working conditions are extreme on Chajnator Plateau, where the 66 antennas are located: low oxygen levels, fluctuating temperatures from 20 degrees Celsius above zero to 20 degrees Celsius below zero - and strong wind. Every time the telescope sets its sights on a new target, 50 of the extremely sensitive and valuable antennas have to be moved. A major effort! And a battle against the weather, a lack of oxygen and a race against time – with a schedule set by the stars.
The chelonian Atacama Desert is home to the world’s largest radio telescope: “Atacama Large Millimeter Array Observatory”, also known as: “ALMA”. In an altitude of 5,000 meters above sea level, astronomers find perfect conditions for observing the universe: almost no pollution, no artificial lights and very thin air. The most powerful telescope in the world can see an incredible ten billion light years. To the edge of the observable universe. Good for the scientists, bad for the engineers: working conditions are extreme on Chajnator Plateau, where the 66 antennas are located: low oxygen levels, fluctuating temperatures from 20 degrees Celsius above zero to 20 degrees Celsius below zero - and strong wind. Every time the telescope sets its sights on a new target, 50 of the extremely sensitive and valuable antennas have to be moved. A major effort! And a battle against the weather, a lack of oxygen and a race against time – with a schedule set by the stars.