A high-level Indian delegation, led by Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), visited Mauna Kea, Hawaii, USA, to discuss and address challenges related to the advancement of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project.
The TMT, featuring a colossal 30-meter diameter primary mirror for optical and infrared observations, is currently under development at Mauna Kea, Hawaii, USA. India has played a pivotal role as a Founder-Member Partner in this international project, with approval granted by the Union Cabinet in 2014.
On January 9, 2024, the five-member Indian delegation, headed by Prof. Abhay Karandikar, engaged in comprehensive discussions with key figures involved in the TMT project. Notable meetings took place with Prof. Henry Yang, Chairman of the Thirty Meter Telescope International Observatory (TIO) Board, Prof. Robert Kirshner, Executive Director of TIO, and TMT Project Managers.
The discussions delved into the current status of the TMT, particularly regarding the Mauna Kea site, the initiation of civil construction, the prevailing funding situation, progress achieved in in-kind contributions for the project, and anticipated timelines in the current scenario.
Furthermore, separate meetings were held with prominent figures including Mr. Scott Saiki, Speaker of the House, Hawaii State Legislature; Mr. John Komeiji, Chairman of Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority; Mr. Mitch Roth, Mayor of Hawaii County; Ms. Kaiu Kimura, native Hawaiian and Executive Director of Imiloa Astronomy Center; Mr. Toby Taniguchi, President of KTA Superstores; Mr. Pua Ishibashi, native Hawaiian and State of Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources; and Dr. Kimo Alameda, native Hawaiian and Hawaii County Mayoral candidate for 2024.
The discussions covered critical topics such as the inclusion of native Hawaiians in decision-making processes and the path forward for the TMT project in the current circumstances.
The Indian delegation gained insights into various aspects of the project, including the inclusion of native Hawaiians, funding availability and prospects, civil construction of the facility, and developmental activities related to establishing the TMT. These discussions aim to foster collaboration and overcome challenges to ensure the successful realization of the ambitious TMT project.