Southern African Large Telescope

The Southern African Large Telescope features 91 hexagonal mirror segments that form a primary mirror with a combined diameter of 10 meters.

The telescope began operations in 2005 as a joint project between South Africa, Germany, Poland, United States, United Kingdom, and New Zealand.

The facility represents a significant advancement in African scientific research, operating as part of the South African Astronomical Observatory complex.

Located at 1,783 meters elevation, the telescope enables scientists to study distant galaxies and celestial objects that are one billion times too faint for human eyes.

The telescope maintains its viewing precision through individual computer control of each mirror segment, allowing precise alignment to a common focal point.

Location: Sutherland

Elevation above the sea: 1,783 m

Operator: South African Astronomical Observatory

Part of: Sutherland Observatory

Address: Sutherland, South Africa administrative

Phone: 0214470025

Website: https://salt.ac.za

GPS coordinates: -32.37592,20.81076

Latest update: May 27, 2025 08:46