Chile is installing the highest gamma-ray observatory in the world: the CONDOR instrument

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Chile really has a new point for the development of physics and science in general. Creation of the Valparaiso Scientific and Technological Center condor, The world’s first highest gamma-ray observatory.

It is located at an altitude of 5300 meters above sea level, in Atacama, CONDOR (short for Integrated network of orbital ranging detectors Integrated network of orbital ranging detectors) in measuring particles produced by the interaction of cosmic rays and gamma rays in the Earth’s atmosphere.

As explained by CCTVal in press release, The instrument will provide a full, continuous view of the southern sky, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Its main feature is the great height at which it is located. statement notes, “Because it would allow the measurement of very low-energy gamma rays which, due to the attenuation of the signals, cannot be detected at low altitude.”

Condor, fly high for the flag

gamma rays They form highly penetrating electromagnetic radiation, similar to X-ray radiation but with a longer wavelength. They are born by the disintegration of the nuclei of radioactive elements.

CONDOR will use White Rabbit technology from European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), Which will give a measure of time with synchronization at sub-second level.

Dr. Miguel Aratea, who is in charge of the project, explained that a condor “is a network of many identical elements that must be synchronized and integrated.”

About his visit, he described it as “an invaluable opportunity to establish the basic units that will be used in the CONDOR experience. In addition to getting to know the place, We were able to demonstrate remote operation of key technological elements, Such as optical sensors and electronics needed to acquire data and maintain synchronization.”

In addition to Arratia, they are part of CONDOR PROJECT Scholars such as Rene Rios, Loreto Romero, Sebastian Tapia, Nicolás Pradenas, Jairo González, Eduardo Valdivia, Ignacio Peña, Edson Carquin, Yerko Muños and César Guzmán.