About the station
The Chacaltaya Global GAW Station (CHC) is located in the Bolivian Andes. Chacaltaya is a mountain with a horizon open to the south and west facing the Altiplano (high plateau of 3800 m a.s.l.). Behind CHC (towards the north and east), high peaks of the mountain range (Cordillera Real) separate it from the Amazon Basin. The climate is semi-arid, but the summit of Chacaltaya is often in the clouds. The area surrounding the CHC is stony, partly covered with snow (especially in summer) and with little fauna and vegetation.
The Chacaltaya Global GAW Station (CHC) is located in the Bolivian Andes. Chacaltaya is a mountain with a horizon open to the south and west facing the Altiplano (high plateau of 3800 m a.s.l.). Behind CHC (towards the north and east), high peaks of the mountain range (Cordillera Real) separate it from the Amazon Basin. The climate is semi-arid, but the summit of Chacaltaya is often in the clouds. The area surrounding the CHC is stony, partly covered with snow (especially in summer) and with little fauna and vegetation.
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The station was equipped in November 2011 to measure gases concentrations, aerosols physical and chemical properties in a continuous basis. It is managed by the Laboratory for Atmospheric Physics (LFA) as part of an international scientific consortium. The station depends upon the Instituto de Investigaciones Físicas from the Universidad Mayor de San Andrés and shares facilities with the Cosmic Rays Group (ORCC).
Most of the instruments are deployed at 5240 m a.s.l., but some have been installed in the northwestern ridge of Mount Chacaltaya at 5380 m a.s.l. Electric power is available at the station through transmission wires from La Paz, cell phones get a weak but continuous signal on site and the internet connection is stable. Permanent personnel (watchmen) work permanently at the Chacaltaya station. Scientists and technicians travel to the station regularly during work days. |
Chacaltaya climate
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Mount Chacaltaya viewed from the Altiplano. Wet season. (2023 Credits C.I.M.R.)
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View of the observatory from the eastern ridge. Dry season. (2024 Credits: T.Z.)
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