February 12, 2012
At Earth's Cold End, Scientists Seek the Universe's Hot Start
Chronicle photo by Paul Basken
The South Pole Telescope, completed in 2007, dominates a row of microwave-frequency telescopes that scientists use to explore the barely perceptible hiss of radiation coming from the earliest moments of the universe.
South Pole, Antarctica
If you want to look into the face of God, or perhaps just win a Nobel Prize, there may be no better place than one of the blue metal buildings here, where hardy researchers and staff members will spend the winter months surrounded by dark, paralyzing cold.
About 50 people bunk down here every year for the Antarctic winter, when the sun never rises, and temperatures regularly hit 80 degrees below zero Fahrenheit, and no flights can get through. Anyone who stays is here for the long
This content is only for subscribers. You can gain access by purchasing a:
Print Subscription
Digital Subscription
Already have an account? Log In Now.
-
Research
-
Linguistics
-
Advice
