2025年02月22日 星期六
FAST: Revealing Facts Behind Cosmic Mysteries
By Staff Reporters

  The Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST), also known as the "China Sky Eye," is the world's largest single-dish radio telescope. Located in a natural depression in Guizhou province, FAST was completed in September 2016 and officially began operations in January 2020. With a diameter of 500 meters, it surpasses the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico, making it the most sensitive radio telescope in the world.

  What is FAST?

  FAST is a colossal radio telescope designed to detect radio waves from distant celestial objects. Its massive size allows it to capture faint signals from the far reaches of the universe, providing astronomers with unprecedented insights into the cosmos. The telescope's reflective surface is made up of 4,450 triangular panels, which can be adjusted to focus on different areas of the sky. This flexibility enables FAST to observe a wide range of astronomical phenomena, from pulsars to distant galaxies.

  Eye for research

  Its primary mission is to detect radio waves emitted by celestial bodies, enabling groundbreaking scientific research. According to the news released by its operator on November 26, 2024, FAST has identified more than 1,000 new pulsars since its launch in 2016. Pulsar observation is a major task for FAST, which can be used to confirm the existence of gravitational radiation and black holes.

  Additionally, FAST contributes to the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence effort by scanning the skies for potential signals from alien civilizations, addressing one of humanity's most profound questions: Are we alone in the universe?

  Benefits for humanity

  Beyond its scientific achievements, FAST has far-reaching benefits for humanity. The technological innovations driven by its development, such as advancements in data processing, have applications in fields like telecommunications and medical treatment.

  FAST also fosters global collaboration by being open to international scientists, promoting a spirit of cooperation essential for tackling complex scientific challenges.

  Moreover, it serves as a powerful educational tool, inspiring the next generation of astronomers and engineers. By capturing the public's imagination and deepening our understanding of the cosmos, FAST advances scientific knowledge and enriches society as a whole.

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