German Federal President Steinmeier and Reinhard Genzel visited Chile’s Paranal Observatory threatened by an industrial facility. Genzel’s work at the observatory is crucial for astronomical research, particularly in studying distant planets. The construction plan risks light pollution, prompting calls for relocation of the project to preserve research quality. Steinmeier emphasized the importance of international cooperation in protecting scientific interests.
German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, accompanied by Reinhard Genzel, visited significant astronomical observatories in Chile that are at risk due to a planned industrial plant. This plant, being proposed by the US energy provider AES Corporation, threatens the unique astronomical conditions provided by the clear, dark skies of the Atacama Desert. The observatories play a key role in advancing astronomical research and exploring the atmospheres of distant Earth-like planets.
Reinhard Genzel, Director of the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics and a Nobel Prize winner, has a long-standing association with the Paranal Observatory. His work on the Gravity project, vital for connecting the Very Large Telescope’s (VLT) multiple telescopes, led to groundbreaking discoveries, including the identification of a supermassive black hole at the Milky Way’s center. Currently, Genzel’s team is upgrading the VLT with new technologies to enhance astronomical observations.
The proposed industrial facility, covering over 3,000 hectares, would disrupt astronomical operations due to anticipated light and air pollution. Paranal Observatory, located at over 2,500 meters elevation, was chosen for its optimal research conditions. Therefore, the observatory staff urge for the industrial site to be relocated just a few kilometers away to mitigate the impact on research activities.
Federal President Steinmeier’s visit included a political dimension, with hopes for backing from the German government. He recognized the importance of the observatory for German-Chilean scientific cooperation, emphasizing the need for its protection from external light pollution. During his trip, Genzel also lectured at the University of Chile about supermassive black holes and the essential role of Chile in global astronomy, receiving the Rector’s Medal for his contributions to science and collaboration with Chile’s astronomical community.
The visit by German officials underscores the urgent need to protect astronomical research sites like the Paranal Observatory from planned industrial developments. Genzel’s ongoing contributions to the field highlight the significance of utilizing optimal conditions for cutting-edge discoveries in astronomy. The collaborative relationship between Chile and Germany is pivotal for future advancements, and relocating the proposed industrial facility could safeguard the observatory’s crucial research capabilities.
Original Source: www.mpg.de
