A $10 billion clean energy project in Chile is sparking concern among astronomers over its potential impact on the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope (VLT). The INNA renewable hydrogen manufacturing complex, located near Mount Paranal, could increase sky brightness by up to 10%, compromising observations of faint galaxies and exoplanet atmospheres.
Mount Paranal, home to the VLT, offers some of the darkest skies on Earth, crucial for advanced astronomical research. ESO Director General Xavier Barcons suggests relocating the project 50 kilometers away to mitigate light pollution, citing the importance of preserving the site for astronomy.
The project’s impact is estimated to be comparable to that of a city of 20,000 people, with some areas as close as 3 miles from the observatory. ESO is urging stronger regulations to protect Chile’s dark skies, despite government measures to control outdoor light emissions.
The company behind the project, AES Energy, claims to prioritize local development and environmental standards but has not committed to a final location or design. Public consultations are underway, with an environmental impact assessment submitted.
Source: https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/science-technology/light-pollution-this-clean-energy-project-could-blind-the-worlds-largest-space-telescope-8633571