New Energy Project Threatens Pristine Night Skies at Top Astronomy Locations

A planned green hydrogen production facility in Chile’s Atacama Desert, proposed by AES Energy, poses a significant threat to astronomical observations at Mount Paranal, home to the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope (VLT). A new study indicates that the facility could increase night sky brightness by up to 35%, potentially hindering vital research on exoplanets, distant galaxies, and asteroids. Despite AES Energy’s assurances of minimal light pollution, experts from the ESO express concern over the project’s lighting plans, suggesting the impact could be underestimated. Additionally, the construction could worsen atmospheric turbulence, further compromising observation conditions. Observatories like the VLT and the upcoming Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) may face substantial setbacks, jeopardizing Chile’s strategic advantage in astronomy and its ability to contribute to significant scientific discoveries. ESO plans to submit its findings to Chilean officials as part of the environmental assessment process.

New Energy Project Threatens Pristine Night Skies at Top Astronomy Locations

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