Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory

Current Context : The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory is a significant milestone for India’s space research and astrophysics, inaugurated at Hanle, Ladakh.

ABOUT:

• Location: At an altitude of ~4,300 meters, making it the highest imaging Cherenkov observatory globally and the largest in Asia.
• Purpose: Observes high-energy gamma rays, aiding the study of energetic cosmic phenomena like supernovae, black holes, and gamma-ray bursts.
• Built by: Indigenously developed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)with support from Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL) and other Indian industry partners.
• Collaboration: Promotes international collaboration, enhancing India’s contributions to space science and astrophysics.
• Scientific and Socio-Economic Impact: Contributes to the understanding of particle acceleration mechanisms, fundamental physics, and also supports socio-economic development in Ladakh.