Atacama Large Millimeter Array

The facility contains 66 radio telescopes working together as a single instrument to observe electromagnetic radiation at millimeter wavelengths at 5000 meters elevation.

The international observatory started scientific operations in 2011 and reached full operational capability with an official inauguration ceremony in March 2013.

The 1.4 billion dollar project represents collaboration between Europe, United States, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Chile for astronomical research.

The high-altitude location in the Atacama Desert offers minimal atmospheric interference and low humidity, enabling precise astronomical measurements throughout the year.

The array includes specialized antennas that can be repositioned across 16 kilometers to function as a zoom lens for examining celestial objects.

Location: Antofagasta Region

Official opening: October 3, 2011

Elevation above the sea: 5,058.7 m

Part of: Llano de Chajnantor Observatory, Event Horizon Telescope

Website: http://alma.mtk.nao.ac.jp/e

GPS coordinates: -23.01928,-67.75318

Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:14