记者手记｜国际大科学工程中的中国贡献——实地探访平方公里阵列射电望远镜南非台址

Core Insights - The article highlights China's significant contributions to the international scientific project, the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), which is the world's largest radio telescope project, involving multiple countries [1][2]. Group 1: Project Overview - The SKA consists of two parts: a low-frequency array in Australia and a mid-frequency array in South Africa and eight other southern African countries, named for its total receiving area of approximately one square kilometer [1]. - The MeerKAT radio telescope, a precursor to the SKA, features 64 hexagonal dishes, each with a diameter of 13.5 meters, located in the Karoo region of South Africa [1]. Group 2: China's Contributions - China has provided 64 mid-frequency antennas for the SKA, with three already installed and one undergoing testing, showcasing its role as a primary contractor for the antenna structure [2]. - The mid-frequency antennas are critical components of the SKA, with their main reflector made up of 66 individual panels, each requiring sub-millimeter precision adjustments to ensure optimal performance [2][3]. Group 3: Knowledge Transfer and Collaboration - China has also contributed to the development of the servo control system for the antennas, enhancing their pointing accuracy, which is essential for achieving the scientific goals of the SKA [3]. - The SKA regional science center, where data from both South Africa and Australia is aggregated, involves collaboration among astronomers, computer scientists, and engineers, with China playing a key role [3]. Group 4: International Cooperation - The SKA project fosters international collaboration, bringing together countries from both the Global North and South, with a shared goal of understanding the universe [3][4]. - South African officials expressed gratitude for China's support in advancing the country's scientific and technological capabilities [4].