Fourth Generation Technology Will Change the Future of Ground Based Observing

The Giant Magellan Telescope’s adaptive secondary mirrors (ASM) are being built to counteract the natural blurring effect of the Earth’s atmosphere. With ASM technology, the optical clarity in next generation ground-based telescopes will surpass even that of space telescopes. These pivotal technologies allow for precise measurements of distances, dynamics, chemistry, and masses of celestial objects in deep space, expanding humanity’s reach in the search for life.