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Science & TechnologySource: Indian Express

New Telescopes in Ladakh to Transform Astronomy in India

Saturday, 14 February 2026
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Key Points

The Union Budget for 2026-27 has approved two new world-class telescopes in Ladakh: the National Large Solar Telescope (NLST) and the National Large Optical–Near Infrared Telescope (NLOT), along with an upgrade to the existing Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT). This initiative is a significant advancement for observational astronomy in India and the Global South.

Detailed Coverage

  • NLST to be operational in 5-6 years, located near Pangong Tso lake.
  • NLST features a 2-metre aperture, third solar observatory in India.
  • NLST will study solar dynamics and magnetism.
  • Data from NLST will support ISRO’s Aditya-L1 mission.
  • NLOT will have a 13.7-metre segmented mirror, among the largest globally.
  • NLOT aims to conduct research on exoplanets and stellar evolution.
  • HCT, operational since 2003, will be upgraded to a 3.7-metre mirror.
  • HCT plays a crucial role in studying transient cosmic events.
  • NLST and NLOT will enhance global sky surveillance.
  • These telescopes will provide high-quality data for Indian scientists.
  • The project enhances leadership of the Global South in scientific research.
  • NLST will monitor space weather events critical for satellite protection.
  • Ladakh's conditions are ideal for precision astronomy.
  • NLST and NLOT will offer preferential observation time to Indian researchers.
  • Data Sovereignty allows India to control its astronomical data.
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Practice Questions

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Reflecting on the significance of the newly sanctioned telescopes in Ladakh, how does the concept of 'Data Sovereignty' pertain to the advancements in Indian astronomy, particularly in relation to international collaborations?