China’s Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST), the world’s largest and most sensitive single-dish radio telescope, is opening new horizons for global astronomy. Since March 31, 2021, FAST has approved nearly 900 hours of observation time for research teams from 15 countries, including Germany, Italy, and France.
These international applications focus on cutting-edge explorations such as fast radio bursts, pulsar studies, and neutral hydrogen surveys. The influx of global interest underscores FAST’s unparalleled capabilities in deep-space observation.
British astronomer Dr. Ralph Eatough, a pulsar specialist at the National Astronomical Observatories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, highlights the significance of this international collaboration. “Opening up FAST to the world allows astronomers to perform experiments that were previously impossible due to insufficient telescope sensitivity,” he noted. “We now have the potential to detect pulsars in external galaxies.”
Jiang Peng, the chief engineer of FAST, emphasizes the commitment to maintaining the telescope’s leading position globally. “We are dedicated to ensuring FAST becomes even more stable and efficient,” Jiang stated. With an annual observation time of about 5,300 hours, FAST continues to be instrumental in generating significant scientific research outcomes.
Nestled in a natural karst depression in southwest China’s Guizhou Province, FAST has been a beacon for astronomical research since its inauguration. Its official opening to international scientists marks a milestone in China’s commitment to collaborative scientific advancement.
The global astronomical community eagerly anticipates the discoveries that will emerge from FAST’s expanded reach. As nations unite in the quest to unravel the mysteries of the universe, FAST stands as a symbol of shared knowledge and the pursuit of scientific excellence.
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FAST provides nearly 900 observation hours to foreign researchers
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