Concerns Over China’s Ventarrones Observatory in Chile: A Dual-Use Dilemma

China’s establishment of the Ventarrones Observatory in Chile has raised concerns regarding its dual-use potential as part of an astronomical surveillance network. Chilean participation in the observatory is heavily restricted, signaling potential marginalization under Chinese control, echoed in similar arrangements with Argentina. Experts urge vigilance from Latin American governments to safeguard sovereignty and promote responsible international partnerships.

China’s foray into the space sector is influencing its global strategic positioning, particularly through the establishment of the Ventarrones Observatory in Chile’s Atacama Desert. This observatory is part of a vast astronomical surveillance network designed to monitor celestial activity and reassures Beijing’s focus on expanding its capabilities as a space superpower. However, the observatory’s capabilities raise concerns regarding its dual-use potential, as noted in a report by the London-based intelligence firm Grey Dynamics.

Situated approximately 2,600 meters above sea level, the Ventarrones Observatory is a collaboration between Chile’s North Catholic University and the National Astronomic Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Initial funding of $80 million has been provided by China, with operations managed by a subsidiary of the China State Construction Engineering Corporation. Chilean scientists are reportedly facing significant restrictions on access to observatory facilities, constraining their involvement in the research conducted there.

The terms of the agreement underline the restrictions imposed by China, allowing the university limited access to the observatory, specifically only two nights per month. Reports suggest this timeline may be even more limited, with sources indicating that Chinese priorities may supersede local access. This pattern bears similarity to arrangements made with Argentina regarding the Espacio Lejano Station, which similarly imposes strict restrictions on local involvement.

Experts, including Luis Fleischman, a political science and sociology professor, draw parallels between these developments and past Russian strategies that marginalized local communities in Egypt. China appears to be pursuing a similar strategy in South America, especially in countries like Chile where ideological alignment and valuable resources provide an opportunity for increasing influence.

China’s defense strategy recognizes space as a crucial military domain, underscoring the intertwining of civilian and military endeavors within its space initiatives as detailed in a report by the think tank Expediente Abierto. The nation’s long-term aspirations to achieve global dominance by 2049 underscore the strategic significance of space, with Latin America positioning as a critical player in this grand vision.

The observatory’s initiative includes the Transient Objects Monitoring (TOM) Project, which aims to develop a sophisticated optical telescope system and additional technological infrastructure by 2026. However, the exact nature of research at this facility remains ambiguous, with concerns about potential military applications not being explicitly ruled out in their agreements, raising questions about transparency in international collaboration.

China’s strategic interests extend beyond Chile, as the nation has established a global network of space infrastructure, including ground stations and observatories in other nations such as Venezuela and Bolivia. Reports indicate these sites are vital for tracking and managing satellite operations, adding to the concerns about dual-use capabilities and potential military applications of these facilities.

In conclusion, it is critical for Chile and Argentina to closely scrutinize the activities surrounding these Chinese facilities to ensure the protection of their national sovereignty. Should there be justified concerns about China’s intentions, it is advisable to consider expulsion and seek international cooperation with nations such as the United States and the European Union to foster responsible investments that honor local autonomy.

China’s expansion into the space arena through projects like the Ventarrones Observatory raises red flags regarding dual-use capabilities and local autonomy. The observatory’s restrictive access to Chilean scientists further fuels concerns of marginalization, echoing patterns observed in previous geopolitical strategies. For Chile and Argentina, safeguarding national interests necessitates vigilant oversight of these foreign operations, paired with international partnerships that enhance sovereignty and secure responsible investments.

Original Source: dialogo-americas.com