GRAN TELESCOPIO CANARIAS (GTC)

Location: La Palma, Spain Type: Optical-infrared Diameter: 10.4 metres

7 This telescope is credited with discovering the most densely populated galaxy cluster.

ANGLING

Within the dome, the telescope can turn to adjust its view of the sky.

MIRROR PANELS

Concealed at the base of the dome, 36 hexagonal mirrors are fixed together to form one large light collector.

TELESCOPE MOUNT

A steel structure holds the mirrors together while the telescope rotates.

SECONDARY MIRROR

The secondary mirror can reflect both visible and infrared light from the main mirror to focus it.

PROTECTIVE DOME

This shield keeps the air around the apparatus still while protecting the telescope from extreme weather conditions.