MSV-2035 Astronomy Document - Inside Design - FINAL - FINAL

Astronomy & Astrophysics 84 It is emphasised here that the projects listed in the Tables 2 & 3, together with the proposed space missions, will providemulti-messenger, multi-wavelengthwindows to the Universe. 5.5 Priority of Projects It is recommended that further commitments in the already committed mega projects (such as TMT, SKAand LIGO) be honoured and mechanisms be evolved to maximize scientific, technical and other types of value returns. In addition, priority may be given to indigenous facilities that use technological know-how learnt from participating in the international mega projects (such as mentioned here). Such facilities are also absolutely essential for our community to grow quickly so that we will be able make efficient use of, and build large instruments for, facilities like TMT, SKAand LIGO-India. Priority is also to be given to indigenous facilities that will place Indian astronomy at par with the international community and/or open new windows that currently do not exist. Emphasis is to be placed on development of prototype instruments with new technologies that can eventually lead to development of instruments Table 3: Timeline of the national mega projects Project (National) Concept DPR Preparation/ Submission Initial Development - Design/ Prototype Approval/ Joining NLST NLOT Sub-mm/ Terahertz Ground- based ɤ -ray (MACE-II & SCT Array) 2007 2008 2020 2018 2012-2017 2019 / 2020 - 2024 2022 - 2024 2022 2010 (Telescope Concept design) 2017-2023 (Dome and instruments design) 2017-2022 (Prototype Segmented Mirror Telescope, Telescope and Dome design) 2020-2025 Proposal to be submitted 2022 Funded for land acquisition in 2019 Proposal for initial funding submitted in 2019. Proposal to be submitted 2022 Timeline Partici- pation Level Construction First Light Operations Remarks 100% 100% 100% 100% 2022-2028 2025-2035 2025-2030 MACE-II: 2025-2030 SCTA: 2030- 2035 2028 2036 2030 2030- 2035 At least 25 years At least 25 years At least 20 years At least 10 years DPR submission in 2017. Land acquired at Merak, Ladakh in 2019. Awaiting approval and funding for construction. Proposal submitted in 2019 for initial funding for design and prototype development and preparation of DPR. Awaiting approval. Significant experience will be gained by the 6m telescope development (2020-2023) by ISRO-SAC that will be located at IAO, Hanle. Technology based on already established facilities. MEGA SCIENCE VISION-2035