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World's Largest Telescope Under Construction in Chile

2/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Construction of the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) is underway atop Cerro Armazones in Chile's Atacama Desert.
When completed, the ELT will be the world's largest telescope and will feature a 128-foot primary mirror.
The site’s high altitude and dry conditions provide clear skies for astronomical observation.
The European Southern Observatory operates the facility, continuing Chile's hub for ground-based astronomy for over sixty years.

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Story summary

Construction of the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) is underway atop Cerro Armazones in Chile's Atacama Desert.
When completed, the ELT will be the world's largest telescope and will feature a 128-foot primary mirror.
The site’s high altitude and dry conditions provide clear skies for astronomical observation.
The European Southern Observatory operates the facility, continuing Chile's hub for ground-based astronomy for over sixty years.