Celestial eye: the world’s largest telescope FAST

Share:

China’s competition for leadership in technology know-how has resulted in tremendous investment and effort in these areas. The seriousness of intentions and the scale of Beijing’s ambitions are demonstrated by the FAST telescope, the world’s largest radio telescope, built by China. More than a billion Yuan has been invested in it, the size of the “bowl” is 500 meters, and the telescope itself has already been nicknamed “the heavenly eye of China.” The FAST spherical telescope is the only such telescope in the world. Now the only one! The fact is that he would not have become so exceptional if not for the recent events in Puerto Rico.

Sad accident

In December 2020, the legendary telescope in Puerto Rico literally in a matter of minutes turned into a heap of stones and metal structures! It worked for 57 years, became famous for its James Bond films, and was open to tourists as a tourist attraction. But at one point, the support towers could not withstand the platform weighing 900 tons, and it collapsed onto a 300-meter reflector bowl, forever burying the opportunity to restore the telescope for space exploration. It was the telescope at the Arecibo Observatory that was the prototype for the FAST telescope.

How it works

The process of implementing such an ambitious project as FAST began in China in 2011. In 2020, the telescope was officially put into operation, but, in fact, it has been working since 2016. FAST is located in Pingtang in Guangzhou Province.

FAST’s specialization is that by studying pulsars, rapidly rotating stars that have already completed their evolutionary path, a telescope can answer many questions regarding the mysteries of the universe. It is three times more sensitive than its predecessors. China was not stopped by the fact that thousands of people had to be resettled in order to install the giant “eye” to make room for the observatory. The telescope bowl is so large that it can be compared with the area of ​​30 football fields, and the object itself within a radius of two and a half kilometers is a “radio silence” zone, where mobile phones and computers are strictly prohibited.

Lure for scientists and an offer “from the king’s shoulder”

China is rapidly building up its scientific reputation while proving that it keeps up with innovation. For a whole year after the commissioning of the FAST telescope, only Chinese scientists had access to it. This time was enough to “warm up” the attention of the world scientific community and bring the degree of expectation to the required condition.

Already in early 2021, China announced: accepting applications from scientists from around the world wishing to conduct observations with the FAST telescope. And there is no end to those who want to, because it is clear to everyone: the data collected by FAST can reveal the secrets of the origin of the Universe, which have so far remained beyond the reach of other observation instruments. And so far there is no alternative to the Chinese telescope in this.

NEWS YR

An exclusive and unforgettable event set against the spectacular backdrop of Capri’s majestic Faraglioni rock formations and the crystal clear waters of the Gulf of Naples. Pershing celebrated its 40th anniversary with three magnificent days of pure emotion, featuring adventures at sea on board Pershing yachts and evenings immersed in the excellence of the most

Italian studio Nauta Design has unveiled a 75.1m hybrid superyacht concept called ‘Velor’. This four-deck, 1,700GT vessel is designed to provide the comfort and functionality of a five-deck yacht. The project was developed in collaboration with naval architect Francesco Rogantino of Studio Names. Project ‘Velor’ reflects Nauta Design’s signature style with clean horizontal lines and

Milan, June 27, 2025 – Flexjet, a global leader in private aviation, and luxury yacht leader Ferretti Group, have unveiled their highly anticipated, design collaboration Riva Volare – a unique cabin design for Flexjet’s aircraft interiors, inspired by the iconic Riva motoryachts. This bespoke design project is a lavish realisation of the official partnership formed

The construction of the first hull of the 23.98-meter A80 yacht is in full swing at the Italian shipyard, and the official premiere is scheduled for this fall at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2025. Arcadia A80 is a motor yacht belonging to the RPH (Raised Pilothouse) class, 23.98 meters long, which combines luxury and eco-friendliness.

The founder of the Santasevera brand is naval architect and designer Francesco Guida, who also designed the first 15.75-meter model. The yacht is a modern take on the classic Mediterranean open cruiser. “I wanted to create a line of yachts that are not only beautiful and functional, but also truly correspond to the idea of

The new Lexus LY 680 model shows an elegant design with noticeable improvements. The extended flybridge, which is now longer, offers ample space for lounging, a sofa for lounging and a barbecue grill, perfect for relaxing on board. In addition, the extended swim platform makes it easier to park jet skis and provides more space

With summer approaching, Sessa Marine has introduced the F48 flybridge model to the European market. The new model combines elegance, comfort and excellent performance, and promises to redefine the cruising experience for European boat lovers. The presentation of the F48 project took place a little earlier, at the São Paulo Boat Show and the Miami

From 29 May to 2 June 2025, the historic Arsenale di Venezia will once again open its gates for Salone Nautico Venezia, one of the most unique yachting shows in Europe. The show was first held in 2019 and continues to grow year after year. This year, Salone Nautico Venezia promises to break records in

The Swiss watch brand MB&F, whose history began in 2005, very quickly established itself as one of the most significant brands in the independent watch sector. Watches from Max Büsser and company are instantly recognizable, even if they do not have a logo. Until now, everything that MB&F produces fit into two main lines: Horological

The family-run Italian shipyard Apreamare has expanded its Gozzo yacht line with a flagship 15-metre model with a closed cockpit-saloon – Gozzo 48 Cabin. The Gozzo 48 Cabin follows the first closed model Gozzo 38 Cabin, presented in 2024. The new yacht offers a high level of comfort, spacious exterior and interior spaces, as well

ALL NEWS

SUBSCRIBE

yachtreview magazine buy

Hardcopy + complimentary subscription to digital edition

1 year 640.00 UAH
2 years 1100.00 UAH
Subscribe

ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION FOR THE YEAR

300.00 UAH

Subscribe