News excerpt:
An Indian delegation of Department of Science and Technology (DST) has visited Mauna Kea, Hawaii, USA and discussed challenges in the progress of Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project and ways to overcome them.
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Objective of the delegation’s visit:
- The discourse centered around the present status of the TMT, especially concerning the Mauna Kea site, initiation of civil construction, the current funding landscape, and the progress of in-kind contributions. Additionally, the delegation explored the expected timelines and future trajectory of the project.
- An issue of these discussions was the initiation of a process for inclusion of native Hawaiians in the decision-making process, reflecting a commitment to inclusive and responsible development.
Outcome of the visit:
- The Indian delegation was thoroughly briefed on various aspects of the project, highlighting the inclusion of native Hawaiians, funding strategies, civil construction plans, and the developmental activities essential for establishing the TMT.
TMT and India:
- The Aryabhatta Research Institute for Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bangalore and the Inter-University Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune are the three main institutes constituting TMT-India.
- India is a Founder-Member Partner in this project which aims to open new windows to the universe through optical and infrared astronomy. Indian participation in this project was approved by the Union Cabinet in 2014.
- The activities of TMT-India will be coordinated by the India TMT Coordination Centre (ITCC) set up by the Department of Science and Technology, with IIA as the nodal agency of ITCC and Professor B. Eswar Reddy (IIA) as the Programme Director.
- India TMT will be jointly funded by the Departments of Science and Technology and Atomic Energy.
TMT’s Significance:
- The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is a pioneering global scientific effort set to transform our understanding of the universe.
- With unique capabilities, it aims to explore mysteries like black holes, dark matter, and extraterrestrial life.
- TMT seeks answers to fundamental questions about the universe's nature, galaxy evolution, black hole-galaxy relationships, and more.
Way Forward:
- For making “Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT)” project a success some measures have to be adopted like: collaborative problem-solving, community inclusion, transparent communication, stable funding, environmentally responsible practices, adaptable timeline management, legal compliance, cultural sensitivity, inclusive decision-making, and regular stakeholder engagement.
- These measures aim to ensure project success while respecting local communities and the environment.
