Launch of new cutting-edge telescope to enhance South Africa's exoplanet discovery and time-domain astronomy capabilities

Launch of new cutting-edge telescope to enhance South Africa’s exoplanet discovery and time-domain astronomy capabilities

In an effort to boost the country’s exoplanet discovery and time-domain astronomy capabilities, the South African Astronomical Observatory (NRF-SAAO), a facility of the National Research Foundation (NRF) which operates under the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), will launch the PRIME Telescope on Friday, 31 January 2025 in Sutherland, Northern Cape.

The PRime-focus Infrared Microlensing Experiment (PRIME) is a cutting-edge 1.8-meter wide-field telescope equipped with the world’s largest class near-infrared (NIR) prime focus camera to perform world’s first NIR microlensing surveys for exoplanets. This is the latest addition to the many internationally hosted telescopes on the Sutherland plateau, known as the “Gateway to the Universe” and the Land of snow and stars.

This is a joint initiative of NRF-SAAO, Osaka University, NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Centre, the University of Maryland, and the Astrobiology Centre of Japan. This partnership demonstrates the importance of international collaborations in advancing scientific knowledge and positions SA at the forefront of global astronomical research, which aligns with government’s vision of establishing Africa as a leading hub for astronomical science.

After successful installations and testing, full science operations are scheduled for the end of January. PRIME uses the gravitational infrared microlensing method which makes it feasible to discover planets around faint stars and moving planets. Microlensing technique is key in exoplanet exploration because it allows light to be observed at multi-wavelengths leading to more detection of exoplanets and measure the distribution of various planets in outer space. The remaining telescope time allocation will be utilised on research programs such as the studies of exoplanet transits, galactic structure, variable stars, and transient objects, with the capability for time-sensitive, high-priority observations. 

DSTI Minister Prof Blade Nzimande will virtually deliver a keynote address and the official launch of the PRIME Telescope, while Prof Mosa Moshabela and Dr Fulufhelo Nelwamondo, NRF Board Chairperson and CEO, respectively, along with other board members and organisation’s senior management, will be onsite for the unveiling.

Details of the event are as follows:

Date                : 31 January 2025

Time               : 12:00 to 14:00

Venue            : South African Astronomical Observatory, Sutherland

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the event.

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