VLT observatory on Cerro Paranal

This aerial photo, obtained on December 8, 1996, shows the construction progress at the site of the VLT Observatory on Cerro Paranal. It shows the site as seen from the North-West, during the early morning hours. While the enclosures for UT1 (Unit Telescope no. 1; to the right) and UT2 appear in their finished state, the cladding is almost complete on UT3.

Seen behind is the VLT base camp, also the site of the Mirror Maintenance Area.