The European Solar Telescope (EST) is a next-generation ground-based research project designed to advance understanding of the Sun and its atmosphere. Planned for the Canary Islands, a leading location for astronomical observations, EST will feature a 4.2-metre primary mirror and become the largest solar telescope built in Europe. Its central focus is the magnetic connection between the deep photosphere and upper chromosphere, where magnetic fields and plasma interact.

EST is being designed to examine the Sun’s thermal, dynamic and magnetic properties across multiple atmospheric layers. Its observing capabilities will combine multi-wavelength imaging, spectroscopy and spectropolarimetry, with several instruments operating simultaneously to deliver detailed two-dimensional spectral information at high spatial and temporal resolution. Adaptive optics and integral field spectropolarimeters are also part of the planned scientific capabilities.

The project aims to help researchers investigate fundamental astrophysical processes, the causes of solar variability and the effects of solar activity on Earth. By providing European solar astronomers with an advanced research facility, EST is intended to strengthen ground-based solar science and support the development of European and Canary Islands astronomical research.