On October 4, 2024, Dr. Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, formally inaugurated the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory in Hanle, Ladakh. MACE, the largest imaging Cherenkov telescope in Asia and the highest globally, located at an altitude of about 4,300 meters, is a significant feat for Indian science.
Developed indigenously by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), with support from the Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) and other industry partners, its inauguration marked a major milestone as part of the DAE’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. Dr. Mohanty lauded the joint efforts behind the project, emphasizing MACE’s critical role in studying high-energy gamma rays to uncover the universe’s most energetic events. He also highlighted how this observatory would boost socio-economic growth in Ladakh.
Dr. Mohanty encouraged students to explore careers in the fields of astronomy and astrophysics, sharing his belief that the MACE project could inspire the next generation of Indian scientists and engineers. Dr. Annapurni Subramaniam, the Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), highlighted the successful partnership between the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and the IIA.
Mr. Sajjad Hussain Mufti, the Chief Conservator of Forests for Ladakh, spoke about the significance of the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve and reaffirmed the local administration’s commitment to supporting the scientific initiatives led by the DAE.
Dr. K. K. Yadav, the head of the Astrophysical Sciences Division at BARC, offered a vote of thanks to wrap up the gathering. Following this, attendees had the opportunity to explore the MACE Control Room, where astronomers and technicians highlighted the facility’s features.
The day’s activities underscored India’s leadership in space research and its growing role in fostering international collaborations in astrophysics, inspiring the next generation of scientists.
