Giant Magellan Telescope Advances to National Science Foundation Final Design Phase
The University of Texas at Austin is on track for huge leaps forward in astronomy research capabilities. The Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT) has received official approval from the National Science Foundation (NSF) confirming that the observatory will advance into its Major Facilities Final Design Phase, one of the final steps before becoming eligible for federal construction funding. This critical milestone recognizes the Giant Magellan’s scientific merit, construction progress, and alignment with U.S. priorities in science and technology.