Atacama Submillimeter Telescope Experiment

The Atacama Submillimeter Telescope Experiment is a 10-meter antenna positioned on the Llano de Chajnantor plateau in the Atacama Desert at 4,800 meters elevation. It observes radio waves from distant galaxies and cosmic dust using advanced detection systems.

The telescope was built in Japan in 2000, transported to Chile and reassembled by 2002, and began regular observations in 2004. Since then it has contributed to studying the early universe and star formation.

The telescope represents joint scientific work between Japanese and Chilean researchers, who operate and share observations together at this high-altitude site.

The site sits at very high elevation in an extremely dry region where the air is thin, and visitors should be prepared for altitude effects. Clear weather conditions make observation periods possible mainly during the drier months.

The antenna surface is crafted with extreme precision to within 19 micrometers, allowing it to capture extremely faint radio signals from space. This level of accuracy is what makes it possible to detect very distant and weak cosmic sources.

Elevation above the sea: 4,800 m

Diameter: 10 m

Part of: Llano de Chajnantor Observatory

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

GPS coordinates: -22.97139,-67.70278

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:20