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This supercomputer combines the images taken by ALMA’s Atacama Compact Array. A tightly-grouped array of 7-meter antennas cornered by four, 12-meter antennas, the ACA forms the sensitive heart of ALMA.

All three prototype ALMA antennas at the test facility on the site of the Very Large Array in New Mexico. From left to right are the Japanese, North American, and European models. Behind them are the temporary offices and control rooms created using the cargo containers used to ship in the parts. This test facility was occupied from April 2003 through November 2012.

The first of Japan’s 7-meter antennas for ALMA is seen here on its voyage from assembly site to testing.

A 7-meter Japanese ALMA telescope rides on the back of an ALMA Transporter on its way from the assembly area up to the ALMA testing area of the Operations Support Facility. The testing area of the OSF, also known as base camp, is located at 2,900 meters above sea level.

Here we can view the testing area from the ALMA Operations Support Facility in northern Chile. Three North American 12-meter telescopes and one Japanese 12-meter telescope are currently undergoing tests in this photo taken during twilight. To the left, are four ALMA Transporters parked under cover.

The Atacama Compact Array with four 7-meter Japanese telescopes and one 12-meter Japanese telescope. The ACA forms a tight group that provides sensitive coverage of the sky that can work with or separately from the rest of ALMA.