MACE in Ladakh opens its one-of-a-kind eye to cosmic gamma rays

Context: The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope is a
state-of-the-art ground-based gamma-ray telescope inaugurated in Hanle, Ladakh,
on October 4. Located at around 4.3 km above sea level, it is the highest
imaging Cherenkov telescope in the world. It boasts of a 21-metre-wide dish,
the largest of its kind in Asia and second largest in the world. The facility
was built by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, the Tata Institute of
Fundamental Research, the Electronics Corporation of India Ltd., and the Indian
Institute of Astrophysics.

Key points

·      
The MACE project: Location -
Hanle, Ladakh, at an altitude of ~4,300 m, making it the highest imaging
Cherenkov telescope in the world.

Development - Indigenously built by
Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) with support from ECIL and other Indian
partners.

Objective - To study high-energy gamma
rays and contribute to the understanding of the universe’s most energetic
phenomena, such as supernovae, black holes, and gamma-ray bursts.

Technology - Uses Cherenkov imaging
technology to detect cosmic rays and observe high-energy astrophysical events.

Significance - Enhances India’s cosmic-ray
research capabilities and strengthens its position in multi-messenger astronomy
on a global scale.

·      
Scientific advancement: Puts India at
the forefront of cosmic-ray research, enhancing its ability to study
high-energy gamma rays and contribute to global space research.

·      
Technological achievement: Demonstrates
India’s capability to develop world-class astronomical instruments, promoting
self-reliance in advanced technology.

·      
Socio-economic impact: Supports the
development of Ladakh by encouraging local talent to pursue careers in
astronomy, astrophysics, and space sciences.

·      
Global collaboration: Aims to foster
international partnerships in space research, contributing to the global
scientific community’s efforts to understand the universe’s most energetic
events.