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Sunset over Paranal *

The Sun is about to set over the Pacific Ocean, and the Mars-like landscape around Paranal Observatory is lit by warm colours. The telescopes are opening, engineers and technicians are finishing their day of work, while astronomers and instrument operators are preparing for a night of observations. The ESO Very Large Telescope (VLT) is atop the 2600-metres peak of Cerro Paranal, in the centre of this panoramic image. Below, on the right, the Residencia and other facilities of the base camp are visible. The coast, only 12 km away from the observatory in the direction of the setting Sun, is covered by clouds as usual.

An amazing 360 degree interactive virtual tour like this stunning panorama is also available.