Introducing SALT: The Southern African Large Telescope and its Spectrometer

The Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) is the largest optical telescope in the southern hemisphere, equipped with a prime focus imaging spectrograph. It analyzes light to understand the physical nature of celestial objects. Located near the Kalahari Desert in South Africa, SALT is constructed with advanced techniques, including lenses made of sodium chloride. The assembly is led by a team from the University of Wisconsin. SALT offers a unique view of the southern skies, enabling exploration of the Milky Way's center.

What is the primary function of the prime focus imaging spectrograph in SALT?

• To break down light into different wavelengths

• To enhance the brightness of celestial objects

• To capture images of distant galaxies

• To measure the distance of stars

Where is the SALT Observatory located?

• In the Sahara Desert

• On a plateau in South Africa

• On the coast of Australia

• In the Andes Mountains

What unique material is used in one set of lenses for SALT?

• Quartz

• Sodium chloride

• Silicon

• Boron nitride

Which institution is responsible for assembling the new instrument for SALT?

• Harvard University

• University of Cape Town

• University of Wisconsin, Madison

• California Institute of Technology

What astronomical feature does the new telescope aim to explore?

• The Orion Nebula

• The Andromeda Galaxy

• The North Star

• The center of the Milky Way