How world's highest Cherenkov Observatory in India will light up the night sky

MACE stands as Asia's largest imaging Cherenkov telescope and, at an altitude of approximately 4,300 meters, is the highest of its kind globally.

In Short

• This indigenous marvel is built by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
• It places India at the forefront of cosmic-ray research
• he observatory's primary focus will be the study of high-energy gamma rays

India has taken a monumental step in astrophysics with the inauguration of the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory in Hanle, Ladakh.

Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, officially opened the facility marking a significant milestone in India's scientific achievements.

MACE stands as Asia's largest imaging Cherenkov telescope and, at an altitude of approximately 4,300 meters, is the highest of its kind globally.

WHAT IS IMAGING CHERENKOV OBSERVATORY?

An Imaging Cherenkov Observatory is a facility designed to detect and observe Cherenkov radiation produced by high-energy cosmic particles, such as gamma rays or cosmic rays, when they interact with Earth's atmosphere.

An Imaging Cherenkov Observatory is a facility designed to detect and observe Cherenkov radiation produced by high-energy cosmic particles, such as gamma rays or cosmic rays, when they interact with Earth's atmosphere.

ALL ABOUT MACE

This indigenous marvel, built by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) with support from Indian industry partners, places India at the forefront of cosmic-ray research.

The observatory's primary focus will be the study of high-energy gamma rays, offering unprecedented insights into the universe's most energetic phenomena, including supernovae, black holes, and gamma-ray bursts.

Dr. Mohanty emphasised that MACE will pave the way for a deeper understanding of these cosmic events, potentially unraveling long-standing mysteries surrounding black holes and other extreme celestial objects.

Beyond its scientific significance, the MACE project is expected to contribute to the socio-economic development of Ladakh. It also aims to inspire future generations of Indian astronomers, scientists, and engineers, continuing the legacy of pioneers like Dr. Homi J. Bhabha.

The inauguration event highlighted the collaborative efforts between various DAE units and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Officials also stressed the importance of balancing scientific activities with tourism in the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, underscoring the project's multifaceted impact.

As MACE begins its operations, it is set to complement global observatories and strengthen India's position in multi-messenger astronomy.

The project aims to foster international collaborations, further advancing India's contributions to space research and solidifying its standing in the global scientific community.