Astronomers to Enhance World’s Largest Optical Telescope

Astronomers at the University of Florida have received $8 million to make the world’s largest optical telescope even more efficient. A multinational group, led by the university, will utilize the funds to develop a new astronomical device for the Gran Telescopio Canarias optical telescope present in the Canary Islands of Spain.

The astronomical device, known as the Mid-resolution Infrared Astronomical Spectrograph (MIRADAS), will enable astronomers to study a variety of objects in greater detail.

The corporation, which operates the telescope, had provided funds to 8 institutions and 39 scientists. The University of Florida, which owns 5% of the Gran Telescopio Canarias optical telescope, began the operations in 2009.

The MIRADAS will enable astronomers to examine the solar flares that hinder communications and power. Steve Eikenberry, astronomy professor at the University of Florida, stated that the instrument will open up a wide range of opportunities. A major part of the fund will be given to the university, where the MIRADAS will be designed. The project is anticipated to take five years before the device can be operated.

Eikenberry added that astronomers are presently examining the solar flares of the sun because of their proximity to the Earth. However, the MIRADAS will allow astronomers to study other stars as well.