Observing Conditions for Submillimeter Astronomy

Understand

Consistently superb observing conditions are crucial for achieving the scientific objectives of a telescope.

• Submillimeter astronomy is possible only at a few exceptionally dry sites, notably Mauna Kea, the Antarctic plateau, and the Chajnantor region in the high Andes east of San Pedro de Atacama in northern Chile.
• Long term measurements of 225 GHz and 350 \mu m atmospheric transparency demonstrate all three locations enjoy significant periods of excellent observing conditions.
• Conditions on the Chajnantor plateau and at the South Pole are better more often than on Mauna Kea.