South African-Made Components Power World's Largest Telescope

The European Southern Observatory’s Extremely Large Telescope is currently under construction in Chile

Johannesburg, South Africa – In a testament to the burgeoning engineering prowess of the African continent, a seemingly humble component manufactured in South Africa is set to play a pivotal role in one of the world's most ambitious scientific endeavors. SKF Vibracon adjustable chocks, produced by the Swedish multinational with a significant presence in the region, are integral to the construction of the European Southern Observatory’s Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in Chile.

Scheduled for completion in 2028, the ELT will boast a 39-meter-wide main mirror composed of 798 hexagonal segments. Each segment is secured to a base structure using steel flanges and the aforementioned SKF Vibracon chocks.

“The ability to readjust each mirror segment is crucial to the telescope's success,” emphasizes Marco Colussi, a structural engineer at Cimolai, the Italian firm overseeing the mirror assembly. The chocks, typically allowing 12 mm of adjustment, required engineering ingenuity to accommodate the ELT's specific needs, including a 15 mm adjustment range within a confined 25 mm height.

Cimolai’s innovative solution involved the addition of extra washers and installing the chocks upside down to enhance stiffness and reduce mirror weight. The result is a system that ensures optimal telescope stability and performance.

“This project underscores the critical role African engineering plays in global high-tech industries,” said SKF South Africa. “It's a proud moment for our continent to contribute to such a groundbreaking scientific achievement.”

With over 9,500 SKF Vibracon chocks incorporated into the ELT, the project is a major win for the company and a testament to the capabilities of South African manufacturing. As the world eagerly anticipates the ELT's completion, it's clear that African ingenuity is shining brightly on the global stage.