The Atacama Large Aperture Submillimeter Telescope (AtLAST) is a transformative project aiming to construct a 50-meter class submillimeter and millimeter-wave telescope on the Chajnantor Plateau in the Atacama Desert, Chile. AtLAST is envisioned as a pivotal facility within the European Southern Observatory (ESO) "Expanding Horizon" framework, combining cutting-edge technological innovation with a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and societal acceptability. This workshop is designed to mobilize the French scientific and engineering communities to explore opportunities for contributing to this ambitious endeavor.

AtLAST project website: https://www.atlast.uio.no/

Telescope design, energy study and science cases: https://www.atlast.uio.no/publications/

Time estimator: https://senscalc.atlast.uio.no/

1. Status of the AtLAST Project

• What progress has been made at the European level in defining the scientific and technical scope of AtLAST?

• What are the current timelines and milestones for its development, including its inclusion in the ESO strategic roadmap?

2. Scientific Potential of AtLAST

• What transformational scientific breakthroughs can AtLAST enable across disciplines, particularly in the areas of star formation, galaxy evolution, astrochemistry, and cosmology?

• How can AtLAST serve as a multi-disciplinary instrument, engaging scientists beyond the traditional submillimeter and millimeter-wave astronomy communities?

3. France’s Role in Supporting AtLAST

• Should France formally endorse and invest in the AtLAST project, given its potential to elevate European leadership in astronomy?

• What specific scientific expertise and technical capacities can France bring to the project?

4. French Contributions: Instrumentation and Software

• What areas of instrumentation (e.g., detectors, optics, cryogenics) and software (e.g., data pipelines, analysis tools) could benefit from French contributions?

• How can French institutions collaborate with European partners to maximize impact?

5. Environmental and Societal Considerations

• Is it responsible to develop a large-scale observatory in the context of a global climatic crisis?

• How does AtLAST integrate environmental sustainability into its design, particularly in its use of renewable energy and its goal to minimize environmental impact?

• Can AtLAST serve as a model for rationalizing global observatory infrastructure, reducing redundancy while enhancing global scientific output?

   

The workshop aims to:

1. Consolidate the French Community’s Interest: Bring together scientists, engineers, and policymakers to assess the potential impact of AtLAST from both scientific and technical perspectives.

2. Evaluate Opportunities for Contribution: Identify specific areas where France can contribute unique expertise and resources to the project.

3. Address Broader Implications: Discuss the ethical, environmental, and societal dimensions of building such an infrastructure in today’s world.

4. Build Momentum for Strategic Engagement: Foster discussions that will inform France’s position on supporting AtLAST and ensure active participation in shaping its future.

AtLAST represents a rare opportunity to advance astronomy, technology, and environmental stewardship in tandem. By hosting this workshop, we aim to position the French scientific community at the forefront of this transformative project and ensure a collaborative, impactful contribution to its success.