The Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) is a planned wide-field "survey" reflecting telescope that will photograph the entire available sky every few nights. The LSST is currently in its design and development phase. As of August 2012, construction has been scheduled to begin (assuming NSF and DOE FY2014 budget requests are approved) in October 2014, with engineering first light at the beginning of 2020, science first light in 2021, and full operations for a ten-year survey commencing January 2022.
The telescope will be located on the El Peñón peak of Cerro Pachón, a 2682 metre high mountain in Coquimbo Region, in northern Chile, alongside the existing Gemini South and Southern Astrophysical Research Telescopes.
On July 18, 2012, with approval of the National Science Board, the National Science Foundation (NSF) announced its intention to advance the LSST to the final design stage. This action permits the NSF Director to include funds for LSST construction in a future budget request.
Read more about Large Synoptic Survey Telescope: Overview, Scientific Goals, Construction Progress
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