The best astronomical site on earth? A modern optical/infrared telescope is only as good as its site. We have previously shown that the infrared skies above the South Pole are up to 100 times darker than skies elsewhere, leading to enormous potential gains in sensitivity. We now seek to extend these measurements to Antarctic sites that are even higher, drier and colder than the South Pole. These are expected to be the best observing sites on Earth, paving the way for the deployment of telescop ....The best astronomical site on earth? A modern optical/infrared telescope is only as good as its site. We have previously shown that the infrared skies above the South Pole are up to 100 times darker than skies elsewhere, leading to enormous potential gains in sensitivity. We now seek to extend these measurements to Antarctic sites that are even higher, drier and colder than the South Pole. These are expected to be the best observing sites on Earth, paving the way for the deployment of telescopes of unprecedented sensitivity able to explore the origins of planets, stars and galaxies.
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Will Antarctic telescopes detect the first new habitable planets? Within the next fifteen years the first habitable-zone planets will almost certainly have been detected around other stars. If, as we believe, Antarctic observatories play a leading role in this emerging field, Australia's astronomers will be exceptionally well placed to lead and to partner major international programs. This will bring Australian industry increased access to cutting edge technology, and create business opportuni ....Will Antarctic telescopes detect the first new habitable planets? Within the next fifteen years the first habitable-zone planets will almost certainly have been detected around other stars. If, as we believe, Antarctic observatories play a leading role in this emerging field, Australia's astronomers will be exceptionally well placed to lead and to partner major international programs. This will bring Australian industry increased access to cutting edge technology, and create business opportunities in the infrastructure and support of Antarctic research. This project aims to ensure that the lead Australia currently holds in Antarctic astronomy is maintained, allowing us to fully capture the benefits of future international investment.Read moreRead less