The Southern African Large Telescope (SALT): A 10 Metre Class Spectroscopic Survey Telescope

Abstract

Over the next five years, South Africa and its international partners will construct the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), a 10-metre optical/near-infrared spectroscopic survey telescope. SALT is based on a design that costs about 20% of a conventional telescope, while allowing about 70% of the science capability of the more costly conventional design. This paper discusses the main design elements of SALT and gives a brief overview of the anticipated suite of first-light instruments. The paper also traces the arguments used to justify the construction of such a facility in Africa. The collateral benefits expected from this project are discussed, along with suggestions of how to realize these benefits. SALT has the potential to promote the development of astronomy on the African continent. The paper ends with a description of the African Network for Astronomy Education and Research, an initiative currently in the pilot phase.