In connection with the long-term plans to extend the capabilities of
the Plateau de Bure Interferometer, work has started recently to
extend the eastern track from now 408m to 800m. More than 13000m
of rock will have to be removed to create a flat area of 3500m
on which antennas will move to reach the extremity of the eastern
track. According to current plans, the eastern track extension should
get completed in time for the winter 2006/2007.
The northern track extension will not be available in the next winter scheduling period. The lifting system (``blondin'') for the transport of heavy equipment and materials to the Plateau de Bure site has been stopped in May to meet the safety standards required for the regular maintenance program. As a consequence of the stop, work to complete the track extension from N29 to N46 has finally been deferred to the summer 2005.