How is Unreal Engine being used for the Giant Magellan Telescope?

Unreal Engine is being used to create a detailed virtual simulation named BOB (Builder of Observatory Behavior) for practicing maintenance, operations, and training scenarios.

What is the purpose of the BOB simulation for the Giant Magellan Telescope?

The BOB simulation aims to reduce risks, train personnel on complex procedures, and prevent damage to the telescope's expensive components before real-world operations begin.

When will the Giant Magellan Telescope be operational and what is its mission?

The Giant Magellan Telescope is expected to come online in the 2030s with a mission to detect Earth-like exoplanets.

Home / Science / Gaming Engine Simulates Giant Telescope Construction

Gaming Engine Simulates Giant Telescope Construction

28 Jan

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Summary

A virtual replica of the Giant Magellan Telescope uses Unreal Engine.
The massive telescope costs over $2.5 billion and is 40% complete.
The simulation aids in training, maintenance, and risk reduction.

Gaming Engine Simulates Giant Telescope Construction

High in Chile's Atacama Desert, the Giant Magellan Telescope, a colossal $2.5 billion project, is currently 40% complete. To navigate the unprecedented challenges of building and operating its 25.5-meter mirror, a virtual simulation called BOB (Builder of Observatory Behavior) has been developed using Unreal Engine. This powerful gaming platform allows for a centimeter-for-centimeter digital replica of the telescope and its support structures.

The BOB system serves as a critical training tool, enabling engineers to simulate intricate maintenance, polishing, and operational procedures before they are performed on the actual, multi-million dollar mirrors. This proactive approach aims to reduce risks associated with the telescope's immense scale and the delicacy of its components, preventing potential damage and costly delays.

Developed in partnership with Epic Games, BOB offers an intuitive, game-like interface accessible even to those without extensive CAD expertise. This accessibility is vital for training personnel worldwide on the complex machinery. The simulation also incorporates realistic sky charts through Unreal Engine's Celestial Vault feature, allowing for the testing of observational scenarios.