China launches first telescope to study sun’s magnetic field in infrared range

China has unveiled the world’s first telescope designed to observe the Sun’s magnetic field in the infrared spectrum. The telescope, named AIMS, was recently certified and officially inaugurated. According to Guancha.cn, a partner of TV BRICS, it fills a global gap in solar magnetic field research thanks to the precision of its measurements.

Located in Qinghai Province at an altitude of around 4,000 metres, the telescope uses infrared spectroscopy to make observations across a broad wavelength range.

Developed domestically, AIMS is equipped with advanced components such as vacuum-cooled detectors and high-tech optical systems, highlighting China’s growing independence in astronomical instrumentation.

Following its approval through a national evaluation process, AIMS will now be used in scientific research and will support China's efforts in space weather forecasting and solar studies.

Photo: Leonardo Mangia / iStock