VLT (very large telescope) from ESO cero paranal

Discover the stars with ESO's 8.2m VLT (very large telescope) on the Cero paranal in Chile. It is one of the greatest technical achievements of mankind, and allows new insights into the beginnings of the universe. The Very Large Telescope (VLT) is the flagship observatory of European ground-based astronomy at the beginning of the third millennium and the most sophisticated optical instrument in the world.

The 8.2-meter main telescopes are housed in compact, temperature-controlled buildings that are rotated together with the telescope. The buildings are designed to avoid disruptive effects, such as air turbulence above the telescope mirrors caused by temperature differences between the telescope system on the one hand and the night air on the other.
The domes of the VLT main telescopes each have a height of 28.5 meters and a diameter of 29 meters.

The first of the main telescopes, “Antu”, began scientific observation operations on April 1, 1999.

The model consists of various individual parts that are joined together with the help of small connecting pins. A small tool for inserting the pins makes assembly much easier.

The dome and the telescope are movable. Overall, great importance was attached to high attention to detail. This model is the highlight for all technical enthusiasts.