description Atacama Pathfinder Experiment Overview
The Atacama Pathfinder Experiment (APEX) is a 12-meter submillimeter radio telescope located on the Llano de Chajnantor in Chile at an elevation of 5,105 meters. It is operated jointly by the European Southern Observatory (ESO), the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy, and the Onsala Space Observatory. Since becoming operational in 2005, the telescope observes cold dust and molecular gas in the universe. It serves as a pathfinder for the larger Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) project.
help Atacama Pathfinder Experiment FAQ
What kind of telescope is APEX?
APEX is a 12-meter single-dish telescope for millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths. It observes between the infrared and radio portions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Where is the Atacama Pathfinder Experiment located?
APEX stands on the Llano de Chajnantor in Chile's Atacama region at roughly 5,100 meters above sea level. The extremely dry, high-altitude site reduces atmospheric water vapor that would otherwise absorb submillimeter signals.
Who operates the APEX telescope?
APEX was established through collaboration between the European Southern Observatory, the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy, and Onsala Space Observatory. Operations are entrusted to ESO, while the current project is associated especially with MPIfR.
How is APEX different from ALMA?
APEX is one 12-meter dish, while ALMA combines signals from an array of antennas to produce interferometric images. APEX is also located next to ALMA on the Chajnantor plateau and has been used to survey targets for more detailed ALMA follow-up.
explore Explore More
Similar to Atacama Pathfinder Experiment
compare_arrows Compare: Very Large Telescope See all arrow_forward
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
