India has inaugurated the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory in Hanle, Ladakh, marking a significant advancement in the nation's astrophysics capabilities.
Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, officially opened the facility on October 4th, 2024, as part of the DAE's Platinum Jubilee year celebrations.
Located at an altitude of approximately 4,300 meters, MACE is the highest imaging Cherenkov telescope in the world and the largest in Asia. This indigenous marvel, designed and built by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) with support from Indian industry partners like the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL), places India at the forefront of cosmic-ray research.
MACE is designed to detect Cherenkov radiation, a faint blue light produced when high-energy gamma rays and cosmic rays interact with Earth's atmosphere.
By studying this radiation, scientists can gain valuable insights into some of the universe's most energetic phenomena, including supernovae, black holes, and gamma-ray bursts.
"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," stated Dr. Mohanty during the inauguration.
The observatory is expected to play a crucial role in multi-messenger astronomy, complementing data from other observatories around the globe. It will also contribute to the socio-economic development of Ladakh and inspire future generations of Indian scientists and engineers.
Officials highlighted the collaborative efforts between various DAE units and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics in realizing this project. They also emphasized the importance of balancing scientific activities with tourism in the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, ensuring the project's multifaceted impact on the region.
With MACE now operational, India is poised to make significant contributions to international collaborations in space research, further solidifying its position in the global scientific community.
