The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) in India has inaugurated the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory, which stands as Asia’s largest and the world’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope. This remarkable facility is situated in Hanle, Ladakh, at an impressive altitude of approximately 4,300 meters. The inauguration took place on October 4, 2024, and marks a significant milestone in India’s astrophysics and cosmic-ray research efforts.
Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, the Secretary of the DAE, officiated the inauguration. He underscored MACE’s potential to propel India into a leading position in global cosmic-ray research, stating it represents a culmination of collaborative efforts among Indian scientists, the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), and various industry partners. The facility aims to observe high-energy gamma rays, enabling deeper insights into the universe’s most energetic events, such as black holes, supernovae, and gamma-ray bursts.