China aims to build world's largest astronomy base on Saishiteng Mountain

China is undertaking a significant project to transform Saishiteng Mountain in the northwestern Qinghai province into the world's largest astronomy base. Project scientists anticipate that by the mid-2030s, the site will house some of the most powerful optical telescopes on Earth.

The telescopes at Saishiteng Mountain will range in size from 6.5 meters to 14.5 meters in diameter. These advanced instruments are expected to significantly enhance China's capabilities in astronomical observation and research. The project is being led by the National Astronomical Observatories of China (NAOC) in Beijing, with Deng Licai serving as the lead scientist for site planning.

This development places China at the forefront of global astronomy, aiming to create a hub for cutting-edge research. The strategic location on the Tibetan plateau offers advantageous conditions for astronomical observation. The base is also planned to partner with dozens of other observatories, fostering international collaboration in the field.

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the telescopes at Saishiteng Mountain in northwestern Qinghai province would stretch between 6.5 metres (21.3 feet) and 14.5 metres across, and partner with dozens of...