Tibetan Plateau ideal position for powerful observatory to bridge East-West divide

A Chinese study published in Nature suggests the Tibetan Plateau in China is ideal for building large telescopes due to its clear skies, stable weather, convenient infrastructure, and remote locations. The study highlights four main factors for site suitability and compares the potential projects with other large observatories worldwide.

What is the main focus of the new Chinese study mentioned in the transcript?

• The biodiversity of the Tibetan Plateau

• The history of astronomy in China

• The potential for building large telescopes on the Tibetan Plateau

• The impact of climate change on the Tibetan Plateau

Which factor is NOT mentioned as contributing to the Tibetan Plateau's suitability for telescopes?

• Proximity to major cities

• Convenient infrastructure and accessibility

• Stable local air and weather conditions

• Clear skies with minimal light pollution

How do the local air and weather conditions benefit telescope observations at the Tibetan Plateau?

• They increase light pollution

• They minimize interference with optical and infrared observations

• They make the site inaccessible

• They cause frequent cloud formations

What is the altitude range of the potential telescope locations at the summit of Sashi Tang Mountain?

• Between 3000 and 3500 meters

• Between 3500 and 4000 meters

• Between 4200 and 4500 meters

• Between 4500 and 5000 meters

How do the current telescope projects at the Tibetan Plateau compare to other global observatories?

• They are not yet started

• They are smaller in scale

• They are more advanced

• They are larger in scale