US-China Space Race Extends to South America; Chinese Astronomical Telescope Projects Halted

Q: What are the key facts in this article?

The US-China space race has expanded to South America, with the US pressuring Argentina and Chile to halt Chinese astronomical telescope projects. The US is concerned that these facilities could be used for military purposes, leading to the suspension of a project in Argentina and a similar situation in Chile.

Q: What is the direct answer?

The US-China space race has expanded to South America, with the US pressuring Argentina and Chile to halt Chinese astronomical telescope projects. The US is concerned that these facilities could be used for military purposes, leading to the suspension of a project in Argentina and a similar situation in Chile.

Q: What is the source and date?

Source: https://www.cna.com.tw/news/aopl/202605110317.aspx | Date: Date unavailable

NEW YORK, May 11 (CNA) — The New York Times revealed that the US-China space race has expanded to South America, with the US pressuring Argentina and Chile to halt Chinese astronomical telescope projects. Scholars have expressed concerns about scientific research being hindered, while US officials worry that Beijing might use such equipment for military purposes. According to The New York Times, a large Chinese radio telescope at the Cesco observatory in the foothills of the Andes in San Juan Province, Argentina, has yet to receive any signals. After repeated pressure from the US government, Argentina ordered a halt to the project. The entire telescope is fragmented due to a lack of critical components, with its giant antenna pointing aimlessly at the sky. This telescope was a project initiated 15 years ago by the National University of San Juan (UNSJ) in Argentina and the National Astronomical Observatories of China, with an investment of 32 million US dollars (approximately NT$1 billion). The telescope boasts a 130-meter diameter giant satellite dish antenna, touted to capture radio waves from deep space, helping scientists map the birth of galaxies. US President Donald Trump's administration stated it is pursuing a new version of the Monroe Doctrine, part of Washington's efforts to counter Beijing's growing influence in the Western Hemisphere. China, a major trading partner for many Latin American countries, is seeking to strengthen cooperation in science and security. This telescope was originally expected to be the largest of its kind in South America, but some final critical components were seized by customs for about nine months. Documents from the Argentine government cabinet chief show that irregularities occurred during the renewal of the cooperation agreement, leading to project delays. Argentina declined to comment on whether US diplomatic pressure influenced the decision. Multiple former and current US officials stated that the US repeatedly expressed c

US-China Space Race Extends to South America; Chinese Astronomical Telescope Projects Halted

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