Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Scientists estimate that we understand only about 5% of the universe, with 95% remaining unknown, comprising approximately 24% dark matter and 71% dark energy. Research continues to decipher these mysteries.
In 2017, India launched its quest for dark matter by establishing a laboratory 550 meters below the surface in Jadugoda, Jharkhand. Recently, it furthered its efforts by setting up the world’s highest gamma-ray telescope at Hanle, Ladakh.
The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope, inaugurated on October 4, is located at an altitude of 4,300 meters. It is designed to track high-energy cosmic phenomena, including the life cycles of stars.
MACE, developed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), features a diameter of 21 meters, weighs 180 tonnes, and is equipped with 356 mirror panels. It is recognized as the largest telescope in Asia and the highest globally.
The telescope is outfitted with a high-resolution imaging camera weighing around 1,200 kg. It aims to study gamma rays from distant cosmic events and potential dark matter interactions.
Dr. A. K. Mohanty, Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, explained that the telescope detects gamma rays produced from dark matter annihilation in galaxies, as well as Cherenkov radiation resulting from charged particles exceeding light speed in a medium.
MACE will also enable research into black holes. It is expected to detect high-energy gamma rays emitted by jets from black holes, contributing to our understanding of these complex celestial objects.
Dr. Mohanty emphasized that India’s scientific research facilities are on par with global standards, attracting international use. The MACE telescope represents a significant advancement in India’s capabilities in cosmic-ray research.