China’s Ventarrones Observatory in Chile raises dual-use concerns, as it is part of China’s astronomical surveillance network serving military interests. The collaborative venture limits local scientists’ access, reminiscent of similar agreements in Argentina. Experts emphasize the need for local oversight to protect sovereignty amid growing Chinese influence in strategic areas, including space.
China’s increasing presence in space is altering its global strategy, exemplified by the Ventarrones Observatory in Chile’s Atacama Desert. This facility raises concerns of dual use, as it forms part of China’s extensive astronomical surveillance network that scans the skies periodically to fulfill Beijing’s strategic objectives. The project, supported by an $80 million investment from China, signifies China’s aspirations to solidify its status as a space superpower.
The observatory’s setup is currently underway, located at 2,600 meters elevation beneath Andean mountains, and it will allow Chinese scientists to closely monitor objects in Earth’s orbit. However, Chilean researchers face severe restrictions, having limited access to the observatory compared to their Chinese counterparts, raising questions about local involvement and oversight in this joint project.
The Ventarrones Observatory arises from a collaboration between Chile’s North Catholic University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, yet the terms have led to apprehensions regarding control and accessibility. Reports indicate that the university will only retain access for two nights a month, which could diminish further for various Chinese undertakings, hinting at analogous control mechanisms implemented in China’s Espacio Lejano Station in Argentina.
Concerns grow over China’s approach, as their agreements in Latin America often mirror previous strategies by Russia to restrict access and influence host nations. According to experts, this enables China to pursue its interests in key strategic locations like Chile, enhancing their geopolitical footprint while sidelining local communities and interests.
China’s ambitions in space have been formalized since its 2015 defense blueprint, which positioned space as a vital military domain. This framework integrates technological and economic policies aimed at achieving global supremacy by 2049, with space control being a core element of that vision.
The Ventarrones Observatory will also embark on the Transient Objects Monitoring Project, intending to establish advanced telescopes and a related infrastructure. However, despite stated scientific objectives, the specifics regarding military applications remain ambiguous, raising further scrutiny about the true intentions behind China’s investment.
Globally, China’s footprint in space infrastructure extends beyond Chile, with installations in various countries like Kiribati and Venezuela, posing similar dual-use dilemmas. The function of these facilities often entails communication and monitoring operations expected of military capability, further stressing the importance of local government oversight regarding foreign involvement in sensitive sectors.
To protect their sovereignty, experts urge Chile and Argentina to evaluate these Chinese activities critically. If any concerns arise regarding the implications of such partnerships, they should act decisively. Additionally, collaboration with the United States and the European Union could foster responsible investments that align with the interests of local communities.
The establishment of the Ventarrones Observatory by China in Chile highlights significant concerns related to dual-use implications and local control. The limitations placed on Chilean scientists and China’s strategic military ambitions underscore the need for careful evaluation of foreign investments. It is crucial for local governments to maintain sovereignty and actively engage with international partners in seeking balanced and responsible developments in strategic sectors.
Original Source: dialogo-americas.com
