High Energy Stereoscopic System

The High Energy Stereoscopic System (H.E.S.S.) is an active array of five imaging atmospheric Cherenkov telescopes on Farm Göllschau in Namibia's Khomas Highlands, about 100 kilometres southwest of Windhoek. Four 12-metre telescopes surround the central 28-metre CT5 telescope, added in 2012. The array studies very-high-energy gamma rays by detecting the brief Cherenkov light produced when energetic particles interact with Earth's atmosphere. Optical monitoring with the nearby ATOM telescope adds complementary observations. The remote research site has restricted access. Visits must be arranged in advance, accompanied by an authorized guide and scheduled around observations and site work. The collaboration offers free telescope and control-room tours for school and university classes, with visitors organizing their own transport; individuals and other groups can request specially arranged tours. Contact the site team through the current official contact page before travelling. The site lies at about 1,800 metres above sea level.