Multi-parameter study for a new Ground-Based telescope in Egypt

TL;DR

This study evaluates meteorological, light pollution, and seismic factors at potential sites in Egypt for a new optical/infrared telescope, identifying the two most suitable locations based on comprehensive multi-parameter analysis.

Contribution

It provides a detailed multi-parameter assessment of candidate sites in Egypt for the first time, integrating meteorological, light pollution, and seismic data.

Findings

Two optimal sites identified in Sinai and Red Sea mountains.

Most sites have acceptable meteorological and seismic conditions.

Light pollution levels vary significantly among sites.

Abstract

A multi-parameter analysis was conducted to evaluate the impact of meteorological parameters, night sky brightness and seismic hazard on proposed sites for the new optical/infrared Egyptian astronomical telescope. The ERA5 reanalysis data set is used to get the following meteorological parameters: Total cloud coverage fraction, precipitable water vapor, relative humidity, wind speed & direction and Air temperature. To estimate the aerosol optical depth we used the Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications version 2 (MERRA-2). Light pollution over the candidate sites was measured from Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) Day Night Band (DNB). The seismic input in terms of maximum acceleration and response spectra were computed using a physics-based ground motion approach to assess the seismic hazards and consequently the designation of seismic resistant structure for the proposed sites to be able to assess the seismic hazards for the candidate sites. Of the seven nominated sites, two sites are found to have the best measurements and might be considered future sites for the new Egyptian Astronomical telescope. The first site is located in the south of the Sinai peninsula, while the second one is located in the Red Sea mountains region.