Four astronomy facilities announced in Union Budget to cost ₹3,500 crore, to be completed over a period of three to 13 years
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Space technology (ISRO, missions)· Prelims·
Why in news
The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is seeking cabinet approval for a ₹3,500 crore project to construct and upgrade four major astronomical facilities.
Background
The project includes the National Large Solar Telescope (NLST), National Large Optical infrared Telescope (NLOT), upgraded Himalayan Chandra Telescope (uHCT) at Hanle in Ladakh, and the Cosmology Education and Research Training Centre (COSMOS 2). The facilities are expected to be completed over a period of three to 13 years.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TNLST: India's next generation window to the Sun
- S&TNLOT: India's first segmented mirror large aperture optical infrared observatory
- PlaceuHCT: Located at Hanle in Ladakh
- FactProject cost: ₹3,500 crore
- BodyIIA: Indian Institute of Astrophysics
For Mains
Q. Discuss the significance of developing indigenous large-scale astronomical infrastructure in India's quest for leadership in space science and deep-space exploration.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Technological sovereignty: Reducing reliance on international observatories for high-resolution solar and infrared data
- Human capital development: COSMOS 2's role in creating a specialized workforce for advanced cosmology research
Keywords: Space Science · Astronomical Infrastructure · Technological Sovereignty · Deep-space Exploration · Indigenous Research
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