E-ELT
The Context
The European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT) is an ambitious astronomical project being constructed atop Cerro Armazones in the Atacama Desert, Chile. With a primary mirror diameter of 39 meters, the E-ELT is set to become the world’s largest optical and infrared telescope, significantly enhancing our ability to study distant stars, galaxies, and exoplanets. The project is led by the European Southern Observatory (ESO), with a total estimated cost of €1.3 billion. Construction commenced in 2017, and the telescope is expected to achieve “first light” in March 2029, with full scientific operations commencing in December 2030.
The Concept
The E-ELT’s design focuses on maximizing light-gathering capacity and image resolution. The telescope’s primary mirror will consist of 798 hexagonal segments, arranged to form a single, contiguous optical surface. This configuration will allow the E-ELT to collect 13 times more light than current optical telescopes, enabling unprecedented observations of the universe eie.it.
The observatory’s dome will have a 92-meter diameter and a height of 80 meters, housing the 71-meter telescope structure. The facility is being constructed at an altitude of approximately 3,000 meters above sea level, providing optimal viewing conditions due to the region’s clear, dry skies.
The Project
Civil Works and Structural Engineering
INEA has been appointed by Astaldi to oversee the preliminary and final design of the E-ELT’s foundations and all associated civil works. This includes the construction of the observatory’s dome and telescope structure, which are integral to the project’s success.
Consortium and Collaboration
The ACe Consortium, comprising Astaldi S.p.A. (60%), Cimolai S.p.A. (40%), and EIE Group as the nominated sub-contractor, was awarded the contract for the dome and telescope structure in 2016. This collaboration represents the largest contract ever signed by ESO and one of the most significant in ground-based astronomy.
Outcome
Upon completion, the E-ELT will revolutionize our understanding of the universe by enabling detailed studies of the first galaxies, stellar compositions, and potentially habitable exoplanets. The telescope’s advanced capabilities will position it as a cornerstone of modern astronomical research.
