The Ministry of Science, the EIB, and the Instituto de Crédito Oficial (ICO) are collaborating to ensure the long-term viability of this significant scientific infrastructure in the Canary Islands. The proposal seeks to secure the construction and maintenance of what would be the largest optical and infrared astronomical telescope in the Northern Hemisphere, contingent upon the final selection of the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory.
This initiative transforms the initial commitment into a comprehensive economic model, designed for over half a century. The proposed financial architecture includes 400 million euros from the Government of Spain, provided by the Ministry of Science through the CDTI; 300 million euros from the EIB, pending viability analyses; and another 300 million euros from the ICO, whose incorporation is under evaluation. State support is also anticipated through Cesce coverages and potential EIB guarantees.
La Palma's candidacy is strengthened by its technical and scientific guarantees. The Roque de los Muchachos Observatory has finalized environmental permits, soil studies, and engineering projects, in addition to a stable governance model that ensures the rights of the international consortium's partners.
