Internet Explorer, Chrome Browser, Firefox Browser, Safari Browser
Press Release16 January 2017Energy ManagementErlangen
Powerful view to the stars: Siemens delivers power substations to Observatory
The Very Large Telescope (VLT) array in Chile is part of the Paranal Observatory and it is the world’s most advanced optical instrument
The compact stations are modular substations, prefabricated and pre-tested on a customer-specific basis, for reliable power supply. Siemens will install 8DJH medium-voltage switchgear, Sivacon S8 low-voltage switchgear and transformers in the compact stations for the European Southern Observatory. The compact stations from Siemens are completely manufactured, installed and pre-tested in the factory and then assembled, connected and commissioned on site. This makes them fast and easy to set up. These substations are also easy to upgrade and make the best possible use of the available space. As a result, they are a time-saving and economical alternative to conventional stations built on site and are suitable for a wide range of applications.
The Very Large Telescope (VLT) array in Chile is part of the Paranal Observatory, the flagship facility for European ground-based astronomy, and it is the world's most advanced optical instrument. The VLT array consists of four unit telescopes, each with a main mirror measuring 8.2 meters in diameter, and four moving 1.8 meter auxiliary telescopes, all of which can be combined into one large array. The telescope is operated by the European Southern Observatory (ESO), the leading European organization for astronomical research.
Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a global technology powerhouse that has stood for engineering excellence, innovation, quality, reliability and internationality for more than 165 years. The company is active in more than 200 countries, focusing on the areas of electrification, automation and digitalization. One of the world's largest producers of energy-efficient, resource-saving technologies, Siemens is a leading supplier of efficient power generation and power transmission solutions and a pioneer in infrastructure solutions as well as automation, drive and software solutions for industry. The company is also a leading provider of medical imaging equipment – such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging systems – and a leader in laboratory diagnostics as well as clinical IT. In fiscal 2016, which ended on September 30, 2016, Siemens generated revenue of €79.6 billion and net income of €5.6 billion. At the end of September 2016, the company had around 351,000 employees worldwide. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.com.