The advanced Simons Observatory green energy initiative: toward an energy secure, decarbonized future for remote astronomical telescopes

Benjamin L. Schmitt

doi:10.1117/12.3020415

26 July 2024 The advanced Simons Observatory green energy initiative: toward an energy secure, decarbonized future for remote astronomical telescopes

Benjamin L. Schmitt

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 13098, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems X; 130981G (2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3020415
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2024, Yokohama, Japan

Abstract

The Simons Observatory (SO) will enter into operation this year with an array of large- and small-aperture, millimeter-wavelength sensitive telescopes operating at a remote, high-altitude site on Cerro Toco in the Atacama Desert of Northern Chile. As SO begins primary cosmic microwave background polarization science objectives, a new science infrastructure initiative - the Advanced Simons Observatory (ASO) – will prioritize the design, integration, and operation of a new renewable energy system, the core of which is a large-scale, high-altitude photovoltaic array (PVA) power plant (between 1 and 3 MW nameplate capacity), to ensure the long term energy security of SO site operations. In addition to reducing operating costs owing to sharply-reduced need for diesel fuel deliveries to run on-site generators, the introduction of the ASO PVA will reduce energy intermittency related to weather-driven site inaccessibility, hence increasing the efficiency of science operations across the lifetime of the SO project while addressing global climate objectives.

Conference Presentation

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Benjamin L. Schmitt "The advanced Simons Observatory green energy initiative: toward an energy secure, decarbonized future for remote astronomical telescopes", Proc. SPIE 13098, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems X, 130981G (26 July 2024); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3020415

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