Hanle’s 25‑Year Milestone: Upgraded HCT & 13.7‑m Telescope Announced – Boost to Indian Astronomy

Overview The Ministry of Science & Technology marked 25 years of operations of the Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) in Ladakh. A three‑day conference highlighted its history, engineering feats, scientific output and the future roadmap announced in the 2026 Union Budget. Key Developments Budget 2026 proposes a 3.7‑m Upgraded HCT at Hanle. Approval for the 13.7‑m National Large Optical‑infrared Telescope (NLOT) under the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Inauguration of a Dark Sky Reserve to safeguard future facilities. Unveiling of a coffee‑table book and a dynamic model of the HCT. Important Facts The site at 250 clear nights and low water vapour, ideal for infrared astronomy (GS3: Science & Technology)">Hanle was selected after surveys in 1993‑1997. First Light occurred on 26 September 2000 and the telescope was dedicated in August 2001 . Since June 2001, it has been operated remotely from the IIA campus in Bengaluru via a dedicated INSAT‑3B link. Key instruments include HFOSC (optical spectrograph/camera), uTIRSPEC (near‑IR spectrometer/imager) and HESP (high‑resolution echelle spectrograph). Research spans comets, exoplanet atmospheres, supernovae, star‑forming regions, low‑surface‑brightness galaxies and active galactic nuclei. The telescope contributed to the discovery of the famous TRAPPIST‑1b exoplanet. UPSC Relevance Understanding the development of HCT illustrates how India builds scientific infrastructure in challenging terrains, a topic relevant for GS3: Science & Technology . The role of the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and the autonomous IIA showcases governance and inter‑agency coordination, linking to GS2: Polity . The site’s geographic advantages tie into GS1: Geography , while the budget allocation reflects fiscal prioritisation, a point for GS3: Economy . Way Forward The 2026 budget earmarks funds to upgrade HCT to 3.7 m and to construct the 13.7 m NLOT, leveraging Hanle’s exceptional sky conditions. Continued remote operation via satellite links will reduce logistical challenges. The Dark Sky Reserve will ensure minimal light pollution for future large‑aperture telescopes. Collaboration with institutions such as IIT‑Bombay (GROWTH‑India Telescope), BARC (MACE) and TIFR (HAGAR) is expected to expand the scientific output and training opportunities for Indian astronomers.