Government reaffirms Canary Islands strong backing for Thirty Metre Telescope project in La Palma
The President of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, has confirmed the region’s “firm and enthusiastic” support for the installation of the Thirty Metre Telescope (TMT) on the island of La Palma, reaffirming the Archipelago’s readiness to become the host site for what he described as a “world-class scientific project”.
In a letter sent to the TMT International Observatory LLC, an international consortium based in Pasadena, California, Clavijo assured that the Canary Islands Government is fully committed to collaborating actively to make the project a reality on La Palma.
A Technically Viable and Strategic Opportunity
Clavijo emphasised that the location proposed for the telescope, at the Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory, is not only technically viable, but would also deliver a significant boost to the island’s economy and to the broader strategy of diversification being pursued by the regional government.
“The presence of the TMT would represent a decisive step in aligning La Palma with the Canary Islands’ strategic sectors,” Clavijo stated, adding that this opportunity would strengthen the islands’ global reputation in astronomical research.
He also highlighted the “long-standing support” of Canarian society for scientific development and the protection of the night sky, emphasising the Archipelago’s historical commitment to astronomy.
Spanish Government Backs the Bid with €400 Million Offer
This declaration of support from the regional government follows the Central Government’s recent decision to strengthen La Palma’s candidacy with a funding offer of €400 million, double the amount initially pledged.
Clavijo hailed this move as a “historic milestone” and noted that the TMT project enjoys “unanimous backing from the Spanish Parliament and the Cabildo of La Palma”.
The strengthened bid comes as La Palma’s main rival, Mauna Kea in Hawaii, continues to face local opposition and reduced federal funding in the United States, factors that may tilt the balance in favour of the Canary Islands.
A Scientific and Economic Beacon
If selected, the installation of the TMT on La Palma would not only mark a major milestone in global astronomy but also serve as a transformative development for the local economy. The project is expected to create high-skilled jobs, attract scientific talent, and place the island at the centre of international astrophysical research.
As the competition enters its final phases, the Canary Islands Government is intensifying efforts to demonstrate La Palma’s readiness to welcome this extraordinary venture, both in infrastructure and in public support.
For tourists, residents, and science enthusiasts alike, the potential arrival of the TMT reaffirms the Canary Islands' unique role as a gateway to the stars.
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