Sunset VLT

Though smaller than their Unit Telescope neighbours, the Auxiliary Telescopes (AT) at ESO's Paranal Observatory in Chile are still hefty displays of engineering. Positioned on rails, they are mobile and can be repositioned around the platform for the best view on the Universe.

Here, at sunset, the ATs are closed, waiting for nightfall to begin observing. The rain clouds in the distance don't look too promising, however. Image taken by ESO Photo Ambassador Juan Carlos Muñoz-Mateos.