A vision for ground-based astronomy beyond the 2030s: How to build ESO's next big telescope sustainably
Laurane Fréour, Mathilde Bouvier, Tony Mroczkowski, Callie Clontz, Fatemeh Zahra Majidi, Vasundhara Shaw, Olivier Absil, Anna Cabré, Olivier Lai, Dylan Magill, Jake D. Turner
TL;DR
This paper addresses the need to embed sustainability in the planning of next-generation ground-based astronomy, arguing that the Expanding Horizons program should place planetary stewardship at the core of flagship facilities. It advocates for concrete methods such as life cycle assessments, biodiversity considerations, transparent environmental reporting, and adherence to FAIR/IVOA data standards, paired with energy-efficient design and renewable energy integration. The authors outline actionable guidelines covering construction, energy management, computing, and data curation to decouple scientific ambition from environmental impact. The work provides a framework to ensure transformative astronomical facilities can operate within global environmental constraints while maintaining public trust and scientific relevance.
Abstract
Astronomy is the study of the Universe and all the objects that it comprises. Our attention is therefore usually focused beyond Earth, home to the only form of life known today. However, how can we continue to explore the secrets of the Universe, if we stand by and watch our only home burn? We know that there is no Planet B. It is therefore urgent that, as astronomers, we collectively work to protect the Earth, allowing future generations the opportunity to continue to uncover the secrets of the cosmos. As astronomical facilities account for the majority of our community's carbon footprint, we propose guidelines that we hold crucial for the European Southern Observatory (ESO) to consider in the context of the Expanding Horizons programme as it plans a next-generation, transformational facility.