India Inaugurates Asia’s Largest Imaging Cherenkov Telescope, MACE, in Ladakh

Hanle, Ladakh: India took a monumental leap forward in cosmic-ray research with the inauguration of the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory at Hanle, Ladakh. The telescope, the largest of its kind in Asia and the highest in the world, was inaugurated by Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, as part of DAE’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

MACE, built indigenously by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) with support from ECIL and other Indian industry partners, is set to observe high-energy gamma rays and study the universe’s most energetic events, including supernovae and black holes.

In his address, Dr. Mohanty called the MACE Observatory a landmark achievement for India, placing the nation at the forefront of global cosmic-ray research. He emphasized its role in advancing both scientific research and socio-economic development in Ladakh. “This telescope will allow us to probe high-energy gamma rays, paving the way for a deeper understanding of the universe’s most energetic phenomena,” he said, adding that the project will inspire future generations of Indian astronomers, scientists, and engineers.

Supporting Ladakh’s Development and Inspiring Youth Dr. Mohanty underscored the significant impact the MACE Observatory will have not just on scientific research but also on the local community. He encouraged students to explore careers in astronomy and astrophysics and highlighted the telescope’s potential to inspire future generations of Indian scientists. Dr. Mohanty also paid tribute to India’s cosmic-ray research pioneers, including Dr. Homi J. Bhabha.

Ajay Ramesh Sule, Additional Secretary of DAE, highlighted the importance of balancing tourism with scientific activities at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR), while Dr. Annapurni Subramaniam, Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), spoke of the collaborative efforts between DAE and IIA that brought the project to fruition.

Sajjad Hussain Mufti, Chief Conservator of Forests for UT Ladakh, reaffirmed the administration’s support for the MACE Observatory and the scientific community, emphasizing community engagement efforts around the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve.

A Beacon for Global Collaboration The MACE project, standing at an altitude of approximately 4,300 meters, is designed to complement other global observatories, bolstering India’s position in multi-messenger astronomy and cosmic-ray research. It marks a new era for Indian astrophysics, opening up new opportunities for international collaboration.

The event concluded with a guided tour of the state-of-the-art observatory and the release of a pictorial compilation documenting the MACE project journey. A special film highlighting the technological advancements made during the construction of the MACE telescope was also screened.