From MiniTAO to TAO: Unraveling the Secrets of Space at 18,500 Feet Above Sea Level

The Atacama Observatory in Chile, operated by the University of Tokyo, has recently opened after 26 years of planning and construction. Located on Mount Chajnantor in the Atacama Desert, the new observatory features a 6.5-meter optical-infrared telescope that is now the highest in the world, standing at 18,500 feet above sea level. This telescope replaces the smaller MiniTAO, which previously held the title of highest telescope.

Being situated at such a high altitude means there is significantly less moisture in the air, allowing TAO to observe a wide range of near-infrared wavelengths, including mid-infrared. This unique capability sets TAO apart from other earthbound telescopes. The University of Tokyo mentions that terrestrial observatories like TAO can provide higher-resolution images of space due to their larger apertures compared to space-based telescopes. In addition to its primary objectives, TAO is also expected to enhance observations made by nearby ALMA telescope by allowing researchers to view objects in different wavelengths and gain new insights into space research.

However, working at such extreme altitudes presents challenges for human workers. Yuzuru Yoshii, who led the project since 1998, noted that construction workers required regular medical checkups and oxygen inhalation due to high altitude conditions. Despite these challenges, TAO is poised to contribute significantly to our understanding of space and will begin operations in 2025 with research on the birth of galaxies and origin of planets as its top priorities.