What secrets do the stars whisper to the Shanghai 65-meter Radio Telescope? We stand before the Tianma Telescope, also known as the Shanghai 65-meter Radio Telescope. It’s a marvel of modern science. This massive structure, nestled at the foot of Sheshan Hill, is a testament to China’s ambition in space exploration and radio astronomy. The Shanghai 65-meter Radio Telescope began as a dream in 2008. Construction commenced in 2009 and concluded with the telescope’s completion in 2012. The telescope wasn’t officially put into operation until it passed general acceptance in October 2017. This telescope plays a crucial role as the main station of the Chinese VLBI Network. It has significantly contributed to China’s Lunar and Mars Exploration Projects, boosting the network’s sensitivity by an impressive 1.67 times. The Shanghai 65-meter Radio Telescope isn’t just limited to supporting national projects. It has opened its doors to scientists worldwide. It’s a key player in the European VLBI Network, the IVS Network, and the East Asia VLBI Network, contributing valuable data to global scientific endeavors. The Shanghai 65-meter Radio Telescope boasts eight receiver bands, covering a wide range of frequencies. This makes it the largest and most comprehensive fully steerable radio telescope in China. Its overall performance ranks among the top tier globally, trailing only the 110-meter telescope in the US, the 100-meter telescope in Germany, and the 64-meter telescope in Italy. The telescope’s main reflector, a vast expanse equivalent to nine standard basketball courts, comprises 1008 high-precision panels. Each panel is meticulously crafted to an accuracy of 0.1 millimeters. This feat demonstrates China’s cutting-edge technology in large-scale, high-precision panel design and manufacturing. This innovative design allows for high reception efficiency exceeding 50% across all eight frequency bands and at all elevation angles. The Shanghai 65-meter Radio Telescope stands as a symbol of international collaboration. Funded by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the Shanghai Municipal government, and the Chinese Lunar Exploration Program, it is a beacon of scientific pursuit. Today, the Shanghai 65-meter Radio Telescope continues its vital work. It tirelessly scans the cosmos, operating up to 7000 hours annually. The telescope contributes to our understanding of pulsars, spectral lines, and other celestial phenomena. Its existence pushes the boundaries of human knowledge. As we leave the Shanghai 65-meter Radio Telescope, remember its quiet hum. It’s a constant reminder of the universe’s mysteries. And of our relentless quest to uncover them.
Jishan Hill
High above the bustling city Jishan Hill stands proud. Its name echoes through time a testament to the renowned writer