The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Telescope

MACE Telescope UPSC Notes

MACE telescope is an advanced piece of scientific equipment, developed with an intention of observing high energy gamma rays and other phenomena occurring in universe. Sited in Hanle, Ladakh, it marks one of the major steps of astrophysical research in India.

MACE Telescope Developed By

The MACE telescope is a collaborative effort between:

• Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)
• Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR)
• Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA)

The project also involved contributions from the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) and other Indian industry partners.

MACE Telescope Ladakh: A Unique Location

Located in Hanle, Ladakh at an altitude of 4300 meter above sea level MACE telescope is at present the highest imaging Cherenkov telescope in the world. The below location is favourable for observing faint signals from space because it does not have much interference from the atmosphere.

MACE Telescope Diameter

The MACE telescope’s light collector has a diameter of 21m, which puts it in one of the top selects of similar instruments. It consists of 356 First mirror panels each of which arranged in a honey comb pattern to reflect light and maintain stability. Mineral glass is coated with silicon dioxide to protect environ; to protect environment.

MACE Telescope Full Form

The full form of MACE is Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment. It represents a significant leap forward in India’s capabilities to study high-energy astrophysical phenomena.

MACE Telescope Hanle: Advanced Features

Key Components:

1. Light Collector:
   • Composed of 356 mirror panels for maximum light capture.
   • Coated with silicon dioxide for durability.
2. High-Resolution Camera:
   • Equipped with 1,088 photomultiplier tubes.
   • Integrated electronics for real-time data processing and digital conversion.
3. Movement System:
   • Features an altitude-azimuth mount for precise vertical and horizontal adjustments.
   • Moves on a 27-meter curved track, with a total weight of 180 tonnes.

Working Principle:

• Cherenkov Radiation:
  • Gamma rays interact with atmospheric molecules, creating electron-positron showers.
  • Charged particles emit blue light (Cherenkov radiation) when moving faster than the speed of light in air.
• Detection:
  • The light collector and camera capture Cherenkov radiation, enabling the study of high-energy gamma rays indirectly.

MACE Telescope Inauguration

The MACE telescope was inaugurated on October 4, 2024. This milestone marks a major advancement in India’s contribution to global astrophysical research.

Significance of the MACE Telescope

• Enables the study of gamma rays exceeding 20 billion Electron Volts (eV).
• Facilitates research on:
  • Supernovae
  • Black holes
  • Gamma-ray pulsars
  • Blazars
  • Gamma-ray bursts

Conclusion

The MACE telescope at Hanle in Ladakh is a revolution in Indian astrophysics. Due to its I-processor and situated in the United States, it is one of the best tools to support exploring the secrets of the universe. India has come a long way in high-energy gamma-ray astronomy by having a successful launch with GBM.