The ESO cautioned on Thursday about the potential risk posed by light pollution to the operations of the Paranal Observatory in northern Chile and a project aimed at generating green hydrogen and ammonia.
Scientists raised the alarm ahead of the environmental planning for a large-scale project by AES Andes in Chile to create green hydrogen and ammonia.
The project would be situated in Taltal, in the Antofagasta region, positioned between five to 11 kilometers from Paranal. Paranal is home to the Very Large Telescope, one of the world’s most potent optical instruments, and is also where the construction of the Even Larger Telescope is taking place.
ESO director-general Xavier Barcons stated that construction dust, heightened atmospheric turbulence, and light pollution will harm astronomical observation abilities irreversibly.
Paranal, established in 1999, is located in the heart of the Atacama desert, known for being the driest place on Earth. Its dry climate, high elevation, and lack of clouds and rain make it an optimal location for astronomical observation.
The site is a component of the group of astronomical observatories located in Chile, such as the Alma radio telescope and the La Silla optical telescope.
AES Andes stated at the end of December that the project involves producing hydrogen and green ammonia, along with advancing solar, wind, and battery storage technologies, in alignment with Chile’s aim to increase the share of renewable energy sources in its energy mix.
AFP tried to contact AES Andes, but they did not provide any comments.
Itziar de Gregorio, who represents ESO in Chile, emphasizes the importance of exploring different sites for the megaproject to avoid putting one of the world’s key astronomical assets at risk.
In October 2024, a new regulation was implemented in Chile to safeguard areas near observatories as well as the well-being of individuals and wildlife.
The regulation establishes brightness restrictions, sets a cap on the operating hours of advertising displays, and encourages the switch to warm light for reduced luminosity.