The Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST) in southwest China's Guizhou Province is making waves in the global scientific community. Since March 31, 2021, FAST has approved nearly 900 hours of observation time for research teams from 15 different countries, including powerhouses like Germany, Italy, and France.
Engineer Sun Chun, who oversees measurement and control at FAST, shared that international applications focus on exciting areas such as fast radio burst observations, pulsar studies, and neutral hydrogen surveys. These cutting-edge projects are set to push the boundaries of our understanding of the universe.
British astronomer Ralph Eatough, a pulsar expert at the National Astronomical Observatories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, highlighted the significance of this collaboration. \"Opening up FAST to the world means that now astronomers have the possibility to perform experiments that were previously not possible due to insufficient telescope sensitivity,\" he said. One thrilling prospect is the detection of pulsars in external galaxies, which could unveil new cosmic mysteries.
Jiang Peng, the chief engineer of FAST, emphasized the telescope's commitment to maintaining its leading-edge status. \"We are dedicated to making FAST even more stable and efficient to support continuous scientific breakthroughs,\" he stated. With an annual observation time of about 5,300 hours, FAST plays a pivotal role in driving forward the frontiers of astronomical research.
Nestled in a deep and round karst depression, FAST is not just a marvel of modern engineering but also a beacon for international collaboration in science. Its doors remain open to curious minds and innovative projects, ensuring that the quest for knowledge continues to thrive in our digitally connected world. 🌍✨
