Protecting the ELT from Earthquakes
- Kate Green
- Oct 19, 2024
- 2 min read
by Kate Green
October 19, 2024
The Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in the Atacama Desert is equipped with sophisticated anti-seismic technology to ensure that it remains stable and operational even in the event of an earthquake. Since the region is seismically active, incorporating earthquake-resistant features is critical to protecting the telescope's delicate instruments and optics. Here’s how this clever technology works:
1. Base Isolation System:
One of the key technologies used is base isolation, a system designed to decouple the telescope’s structure from ground motion during an earthquake. Here’s how it works:
Elastomeric Bearings: Large rubber and steel bearings are placed between the foundation and the telescope structure. These bearings can deform elastically during seismic activity, absorbing the earthquake’s energy and reducing the amount of shaking transmitted to the telescope.
Sliding Bearings: In some systems, sliding bearings are also used, allowing the structure to move slightly relative to the ground, which further reduces the impact of ground movement on the telescope.
2. Dampers:
In addition to base isolation, seismic dampers are installed to absorb the energy generated during an earthquake. These are specialized devices that:
Dissipate Vibrational Energy: Dampers convert the vibrational energy from the earthquake into heat, reducing the amount of movement the telescope experiences.
Shock Absorption: These devices provide a buffering effect, protecting both the mechanical and optical components from shocks.
3. Structural Flexibility:
The steel structure of the telescope dome is designed with flexibility in mind, meaning it can absorb and distribute seismic forces without cracking or deforming. The use of flexible joints and materials ensures that the structure bends rather than breaks, which helps protect the telescope’s sensitive optics.
4. Automated Safety Systems:
To further safeguard the telescope during seismic events, automated systems are in place to detect the onset of an earthquake. These systems may:
Shut Down Operations: Automatically stop observations and move the telescope into a "safe" position to prevent damage to the delicate instruments.
Secure Instruments: Lock down movable parts to minimize internal damage.
Why It’s Crucial:
Seismic protection is especially important because the ELT’s optics and adaptive systems require an incredibly high degree of precision. Even slight movements or distortions caused by seismic activity could affect the alignment of mirrors or damage equipment, impacting the telescope’s ability to capture high-resolution images.
By combining these technologies, the ELT is built to withstand the region's seismic challenges and continue its groundbreaking observations with minimal interruption.
Video Credit: European Southern Observatory (ESO)
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