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Thirty-Meter Telescope

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The Thirty-Meter Telescope (TMT) is a proposed extremely large telescope that aims to significantly advance astronomy by allowing observations in the optical and near-infrared spectra. It features a 30-meter primary mirror, making it one of the largest telescopes in the world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The TMT's primary mirror consists of 492 individual segments.
  2. It is designed to have adaptive optics to correct for atmospheric distortions, enabling clearer images.
  3. The TMT will be located at Mauna Kea in Hawaii, which offers excellent observing conditions due to its high altitude and stable atmosphere.
  4. The telescope aims to explore key astronomical questions such as the formation of stars and galaxies, black holes, and potentially habitable exoplanets.
  5. It has faced significant delays and controversies, particularly regarding its construction site on Mauna Kea, which is considered sacred land by Native Hawaiians.

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