India’s National Large Solar Telescope Project in Ladakh

November 2, 2024

The Sun is crucial for life on Earth, yet we know little about it. Solar storms can disrupt satellites and technology. India is addressing this gap by establishing the National Large Solar Telescope (NLST) in Ladakh. This project, led by Professor Annapurni Subramaniam, aims to enhance our understanding of solar activity.

Project Overview

The NLST will be a two-metre class optical and near-infrared observational facility. It will investigate solar magnetic fields and their dynamics. The telescope will achieve a spatial resolution of 0.1-0.3 arc-seconds. This precision is vital for studying the Sun’s behaviour.

Importance of Solar Observations

Solar storms, or Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs), release vast amounts of plasma and magnetic fields into space. Some of this can impact Earth, causing geomagnetic storms. These storms can disrupt radio communications and GPS signals. Therefore, predicting solar activity is essential for safeguarding technology-dependent life on Earth.

Location and Advantages

The NLST will be located at Merak, near Pangong Tso Lake, at an altitude of 4,200 metres. This high-altitude site is ideal for optical and near-infrared observations. It offers clear skies and high transparency. The gentle winds help maintain clarity and cool the instruments, which is crucial for effective solar observations.

Connection to Other Projects

The NLST will complement the Aditya L1 satellite’s first space-based solar observatory. While the satellite is already operational, the NLST has faced delays. However, the telescope is expected to provide ground-based data that supports the satellite’s findings.

Funding and Timeline

The project is estimated to cost over Rs 150 crore. It has faced nearly a decade of delays. However, with final approvals pending, the telescope could be operational in a few years. The Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor has prioritised this project in its ‘Mega Science Vision – 2035’ document.

Site Characteristics

Merak’s location offers several benefits. The calm atmosphere around Pangong Tso Lake enhances observation quality. The continuous breeze aids in cooling the telescope, essential for maintaining optimal performance. The region is known for its exceptionally clear skies and low light pollution, making it perfect for astronomical studies.

Latest Developments

On July 6, 2024, Dr Ajay K Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, visited the NLST site. He assessed the project’s progress and reaffirmed its significance. The telescope is viewed as a top priority for advancing solar astronomy in India.

Scientific Goals

The NLST aims to address key scientific questions about solar behaviour. It will provide vital information about the origin and dynamics of solar magnetic fields. This knowledge is crucial for understanding solar storms and their effects on Earth.

The NLST project is poised for final approvals in November 2024. Its establishment marks an important step forward in solar research. The collaboration between ground-based and space-based observations will enhance our understanding of the Sun and its impact on Earth.

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