- It is a proposed astronomical observatory with an extremely large telescope (ELT) that has become the source of controversy over its planned location on Mauna Kea in the state of Hawaii.
- It will be world’s biggest telescope.
- Construction of the TMT was proposed on land which is considered sacred to Native Hawaiian culture and religion.
- Hanle in Ladakh is one among the new sites that are being explored for the construction of the telescope
- India is a part of this project
- Telescope is being developed by India, Canada, China, Japan and the U.S.
- The telescope is expected to be ready by 2020.
India’s Contributions in the project:
- India will spend Rs 1,300 crore on the project.
- India’s contribution to the project will be more in terms of hardware than money.
Location of Hanle:
