WORLD’S LARGEST TELESCOPE THREATENED BY RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT

Mario Nawfal

@MarioNawfal
🚨WORLD’S LARGEST TELESCOPE THREATENED BY RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT

A massive hydrogen energy project planned near Chile’s Mount Paranal could increase sky brightness by 10%, potentially crippling the capabilities of the Very Large Telescope (VLT), one of the world’s most advanced astronomical observatories.

Scientists warn that this light pollution could downgrade Mount Paranal from a premier observing site to an average one, making it harder to detect faint galaxies and study exoplanets.

ESO Director General Xavier Barcons argues that while the hydrogen project could be relocated, Mount Paranal is irreplaceable. Moving the plant just 31 miles away could preserve the dark skies needed for groundbreaking discoveries.

Source: ESO, Space