China’s AIMS Telescope Operational for Mid-Infrared Sun Studies

The world’s first solar magnetic-field telescope operating in the mid-infrared wavelength has officially been commissioned after passing its final acceptance review, announced the National Astronomical Observatories of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (NAOC).

Named the Accurate Infrared Magnetic Field Measurements of the Sun (AIMS), the telescope represents a major leap in solar observation technology. It bridges a critical global gap in mid-infrared solar magnetic-field measurements and sets a benchmark for building future large-scale astronomical facilities at high-altitude sites, said Deng Yuanyong, a researcher at the NAOC.

Decoding the Sun’s “Master Switch”

The Sun’s magnetic field acts as a “master switch,” driving solar eruptions such as flares and coronal mass ejections. Understanding and accurately measuring this magnetic field is vital not only for solar physics but also for predicting space weather that can impact Earth’s technological systems.

“Intense solar magnetic activity can disrupt communication, navigation, and power grids on Earth,” Deng explained. “However, existing measurements—mostly in visible wavelengths—are limited in precision. This has become a major bottleneck in understanding and forecasting solar activity.”

A Decade of Innovation

Development of the AIMS project began in 2015. After years of research and engineering, it now stands as a testament to China’s growing expertise in solar physics and astronomical instrumentation.

Located in Lenghu township, Qinghai Province, at an altitude of around 4,000 meters, the site provides exceptional observing conditions for mid-infrared wavelengths. Despite its thin air and harsh climate, the area’s stable atmosphere and low humidity make it ideal for high-precision solar studies.

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Direct Detection and Higher Accuracy

Traditionally, solar magnetic-field measurements relied on indirect inference. The AIMS telescope has transformed this process into direct detection, greatly improving precision and reliability. Its accuracy in direct magnetic-field measurement exceeds 10 gauss, marking a significant advancement in the field.

The telescope is entirely domestically developed, including crucial components such as the infrared spectrograph, imaging camera, and vacuum cryogenic system—showcasing China’s self-sufficiency in advanced astronomical technology.

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Pioneering Scientific Insights

During its commissioning and trial phase, AIMS captured mid-infrared flare data across several spectral bands. These observations offer valuable insights into the dynamics of matter and energy transfer during solar eruptions and the buildup and release of magnetic free energy.

Now fully operational and entering its scientific output phase, AIMS is expected to produce groundbreaking data that will strengthen China’s research in solar physics, enhance space-weather forecasting, and advance the country’s capability to monitor solar activity with greater precision.