English
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The ALMA research project in the Atacama desert: a revolutionary climate system
Air conditioning solution for astronomical research
Research Project Alma
In the Chilean Atacama Desert, more than 60 telescopes at an altitude of 5,100 metres are making a decisive contribution to the ALMA astronomical project. These radio antennas receive millimetre and submillimetre waves and together form a huge telescope that makes previously unexplored areas of the universe visible.
Extreme adaptability
The climate control system can cope with both the high temperatures in direct sunlight and the icy conditions in the shade.
Precise temperature control
One of the main tasks of the system is to maintain a constant temperature of between 16 °C and 22 °C inside the receiver cabin all year round.
Innovative system components
The air conditioning system consists of several specialised components, such as a chiller with the option of free cooling, a glycol distribution system, internal recirculation air treatment units and specially adapted fans.
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Temperature control in harsh environments
The challenge
The Chajnantor plateau, where the telescopes are located, is known for its extreme weather conditions. The temperature fluctuates drastically between 30 °C to 40 °C in direct sunlight and sub-zero temperatures in the shade. To ensure precise measurements, a special climate system must protect the sensitive technology from these fluctuations.
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High technology in the Atacama Desert
Extreme conditions
The Atacama Desert in Chile, one of the driest and highest regions in the world, offers ideal conditions for astronomical observations. However, the extreme temperature fluctuations require a specialised climate system for the ALMA telescopes in order to enable precise space observations.
The ALMA climate system project represents an outstanding and challenging task that could only be accomplished through the close cooperation of all those involved.
Innovative air climate control solutions from Menerga
Menerga solution
Menerga was commissioned by Vertex Antennentechnik GmbH to develop a customised air conditioning system. The aim was to maintain a constant temperature of between 16 °C and 22 °C in the receiver cabin all year round. The system developed consists of four main components:
A chiller for the outside air with an option for free cooling
A glycol distribution system that connects the chiller to the internal ventilation units
Two internal air handling units to regulate the measuring and recording instruments and the receiver
Fans to optimise air distribution in hard-to-reach areas of the receiver cabin
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This project sets new standards in the adaptation of climate systems to extreme environmental conditions and opens up new horizons in astronomical research.