[M-IS19] Arctic and Antarctic Science and Future Plan

[MIS19-06] Antarctic Large Terahertz Telescope

*Naomasa NAKAI¹ (1.University of Tsukuba)

Keywords:astronomical observations, large astronomical telescope, domes in Antarctica

We propose construction of a 30-m class terahertz telescope at the plateaus of Antarctica like the (new) Dome Fuji station to make astronomical observations of cosmology to planets, including large field searching of extremely distant galaxies, at the frequencies of 200 to 1,500 GHz (1.5 THz). For the observations at such extremely high frequencies, a very dry site is required, because the high frequency radio emission from the universe is absorbed by water vapor in the atmosphere of the earth. The plateaus in the inland of Antarctica, which are extremely cold and high altitude and thus the driest on the earth, are the best and unique sites for the observations. We are proposing the project as the next large telescope to the astronomical society under the collaboration between astronomical and polar science societies.