The ALMA Site from Above

31 December, 2009 / Read time: 1 minute

In this video we can observe the Operations Support Facility (OSF) of the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) from high altitude. This fascinating panoramic view allows us to appreciate the remoteness of the site, located at 9,500-foot altitude , and approximately 40 minutes from the nearest town (San Pedro de Atacama).

This camp has dormitories, laboratories, maintenance hangars, dining room and recreation areas, so ALMA workers can stay at the site during the days of their shift.

From this location, the scientific team can remotely operate the ALMA antennas, which are located at an altitude of 16,500 ft at the Array Operations Site (AOS).

Credits: National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO)