China’s FAST Telescope: Xinjiang’s New Eye on the Universe
- Construction is underway on a giant radio telescope in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.
- Located in Qitai County, changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, the 110-metre aperture telescope is slated for completion and operation in 2028.
- The antenna structure soars higher than a 35-story building.
China’s Xinjiang region is becoming a hub for cutting-edge astronomical research. Thier massive new radio telescope,expected to be operational by 2028,will be a world-leading instrument,poised to dramatically enhance the nation’s capabilities in deep-space observation. This fully steerable xinjiang telescope, with an antenna structure soaring higher than a 35-story building, offers unparalleled sensitivity to astronomers. News Directory 3 has the exclusive on the developing project, showcasing China’s ambition to lead in the field with its advanced design, allowing for a wider view of the cosmos. Find out what discoveries await.
China Building Giant Radio Telescope in Xinjiang for Astronomical Research
Updated June 13, 2025
Construction is underway on a giant radio telescope in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The main tower of the radio telescope was recently capped, marking the start of interior work.
Located in Qitai County, changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, the 110-metre aperture telescope is slated for completion and operation in 2028. This aspiring project underscores China’s commitment to advancing astronomical research.
The antenna structure soars higher than a 35-story building. Its reception area equals 23 basketball courts, and the antenna weighs over 6,000 tons. The xinjiang telescope will be a world-class, fully steerable radio telescope, boasting high sensitivity and diverse research capabilities.
Unlike fixed radio telescopes, this fully steerable design allows observation of a larger portion of the sky. Beyond scientific research,the facility will also serve as a center for astronomy education.
What’s next
With the main structure complete, interior decoration and instrument installation will proceed. The telescope promises to significantly enhance China’s capabilities in astronomical observation and research.