Array for Cosmic Exploration

The Array for Cosmic Exploration under construction; (1729 AN).

The Array for Cosmic Exploration (ACE) is an advanced radio telescope array located in the central highlands of the Region of Santander, Nouvelle Alexandrie. Initiated in late 1729 AN and completed its primary phase in 1736 AN, the project represents one of the Federation's most significant scientific achievements of the decade. ACE operates as a collaborative endeavor under the Nouvelle Alexandrie Aerospace Development Directorate, with contributions from international partners including Javelin Industries and Dingo Enterprises. Since becoming operational, the array has already made several groundbreaking discoveries, establishing Nouvelle Alexandrie as a leading nation in radio astronomy.

Overview

The ACE consists of 142 parabolic radio antennas arranged in a Y-shaped configuration spanning 64 kilometers across the Santanderian highlands. The location was chosen for its natural radio-quiet properties, minimal atmospheric interference, and protection from electronic noise. The array operates across a frequency range of 50 MHz to 25 GHz, providing unprecedented resolution for observing cosmic phenomena. A distinctive feature of ACE is its high-speed data processing center, which utilizes Alexandrium-enhanced computing systems developed jointly by Javelin Industries and the Federal Scientific Computing Center in 1738 AN.

Expansion and Development

Following the successful completion of the primary array in 1736 AN, the Department of Research and Development approved a NAX€180 million expansion project in 1741 AN. This "ACE-Extended" initiative will add 68 additional antennas and extend the array's reach to 120 kilometers by 1745 AN, potentially doubling its resolution capabilities.

In 1742 AN, the array was upgraded with Alexandrium-enhanced receivers that dramatically improved its sensitivity to weak signals. This technological breakthrough, developed by Javelin Industries' Special Materials Division, has enabled the detection of radio emissions from previously unobservable distant galaxies.

International Collaboration

While initially conceived as a primarily national project, ACE has evolved into a significant hub for international scientific collaboration. The array now hosts researchers from twelve nations, with particularly strong partnerships with Natopia, Constancia, and the Benacian Union. In 1739 AN, the "Open Skies" initiative was launched, allocating 25% of observation time to international research teams through a competitive proposal process.

The ACE Data Center, established in 1738 AN in Ciudad Real, maintains one of Micras' largest astronomical databases, with over 14 petabytes of observational data freely available to researchers worldwide.

Funding and Economic Impact

The total investment in ACE through 1743 AN has reached approximately NAX€420 million, including the initial construction budget of NAX€200 million, technological upgrades worth NAX€40 million, and the ongoing expansion project. The array employs over 280 scientists, engineers, and support staff, while indirectly supporting an estimated 1,500 jobs in the surrounding communities.

A 1742 AN economic impact study conducted by the Federal Bank of Nouvelle Alexandrie estimated that ACE contributes approximately NAX€95 million annually to the Santanderian economy through direct operations, scientific tourism, and associated research activities.

See also

• Interstellar Research and Communication Array
• Nouvelle Alexandrie Aerospace Development Directorate
• Project Fortuna
• Aeronautics and Space Administration of Nouvelle Alexandrie
• Santander Signal Controversy
• Nouvelle Alexandrie Orbital Defense Initiative
• Javelin Industries
• Dingo Enterprises
• NatAlex Launch Alliance