A gigantic astronomical telescope with the diameter of 2.4 meters has been transported to the Gaogumei astronomical observatory in Lijiang City, southwest China's Yunnan Province. This is the largest astronomical telescope currently in China and it is said to go into observation in August this year.

The 30 million yuan worth of telescope is manufactured by British TTL Company. It has the first-rate optical quality and high imagery clarity, and the high precision of its following and pointing functions also meets the top national requirements.

Gaogumei Astronomical Observatory in Lijiang City is the best place for astronomical observation in China. Lijiang City is 3,193 meters above the sea level and the average clear nights total 254 nights there annually. Additionally, without disturbance from artificial light and sand, Lijiang City maintains the excellent atmospheric seeing in consideration to the dark daylight background and good air transparency.

Upon its completion, the astronomical observatory will play a vital role in the research of astronomical physics and on-the-spot observation.

(People's Daily March 7, 2005)