Chinese Journal of Polar Research ›› 2024, Vol. 36 ›› Issue (1): 84-98.DOI: 10.13679/j.jdyj.20230077

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Progress of the Antarctic large field of view telescope

WU Zhixu1,2CHEN Chao1,4, JIANG Peng3CONG Jianan1,4YANG Hao1,4LI Zhengyang1   

  1. 1 Nanjing Institute of Astronomical Optics & Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210042, China;
    2 Institute of Space Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China;
    3 Polar Research Institute of China, Shanghai 201209, China;
    4 University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

  • Online:2024-03-30 Published:2024-03-30

Abstract:

Astronomical observatory sites, in the extreme Antarctic environment, not only exhibit exceptional conditions for astronomical observations, but also present a notably high frequency of space debris transit. These characteristics provide high versatility for large field-of-view telescopes with diverse potential applications, such as astronomical observations, space debris management, and deep space exploration. To achieve scientific objectives while considering data requirements, China has deployed several large field of view telescopes with various optical systems in Antarctica. This review discusses key aspects of Antarctic large field of view observations. First, the Chinese Antarctic astronomical sites are described and the motivation for constructing multiple large field of view telescopes in Antarctica is given. Second, the types of optical systems currently used for Chinese Antarctic telescopes are detailed. Third, the expected scientific advances are listed. This review aims to demonstrate the usefulness of large field of view telescopes in the unique context of Antarctica.

Key words:

Antarctic astronomy, large field of view telescope, lens design, space debris monitoring