Maunakea Spectroscopic Explorer
Maunakea Spectroscopic Explorer at sunset | |
| Part of | Mauna Kea Observatories |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 19°49'31.1"N, 155°28'12.0"W |
| Wavelength | 360–18000 nm |
| Diameter | 11.25 m |
| Collecting area | 78.5 square meters |
| Mounting | Altazimuth |
| Enclosure | Calotte |
| Related media on Commons | |
The Maunakea Spectroscopic Explorer (MSE) is a collaborative project to revitalize the Canada–France–Hawaii Telescope (CFHT). The group aims to replace the 1970s optical telescope with a modern segmented-mirror telescope and dedicated science instrumentation, while reusing the existing Maunakea summit building and facility. MSE will use an 11.25 meter aperture telescope and dedicated multiobject fibre spectroscopy instrumentation to perform survey science observations, collecting spectra from more than 4,000 astronomical targets simultaneously.
The project completed a conceptual design in early 2018. However, the 2022 Maunakea moratorium on new leases for telescopes delays decision-making on MSE until after 2030; as of late 2024 the CFHT Board has curtailed funding of any MSE activities for the time being .