Project start
Scientists in Germany and Brazil developed the idea for the project. Together, they wrote a funding proposal that was granted in the summer of 2010.
![rainforest surrounding ATTO](https://www.attoproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/rainforest-surrounding-ATTO_a-e1564143596915-1024x640.jpg)
Pioneering
As a first important step in realizing this massive undertaking, the team needed to find an appropriate location for the research site. In a second step, the site and access to it were developed.
Pilot measurements
An 81 m high guyed triangular mast was built for pilot measurements. Meanwhile, it is used for a variety of aerosol measurements.
![ATTO camp for scientists and technicians](https://www.attoproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Bild19-e1564143744462-768x480.jpg)
Camp building
Construction of the camp at the ATTO plateau. It contains dormitories with accommodation capacity in hammocks for up to 30 people, bathrooms and cafeteria.
![80 m walk-up tower and mast](https://www.attoproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/80-m-walk-up-tower-and-mast_s-768x512.jpg)
80 m tower
An 80 m high guyed, walk-up scaffold tower was built, with outboard platforms on five heights on which trace-gas and meteorological measurements are currently performed.
![Containers arriving at ATTO](https://www.attoproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/DSC08804_a-768x510.jpg)
Containers
Construction and equipment of air-conditioned laboratory containers at the base of the 80/81 m towers measuring towers.
Continuous measurements
Continuous and campaign-based measurements since 2011 (carbon dioxide, ozone, volatile organic compounds, nitrogen-containing trace gases, aerosols, meteorology)
Connection
A satellite connection for data transmission and device control was established.
![](https://www.attoproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/20150205_093842_HDR_s-e1564143527531-768x480.jpg)
Tall Tower
Laying of the foundation stone of the 325 m high Tall Tower on August 15, 2014 and official inauguration on a year later.
Power
Implementation of a professional fail-safe generator-based electrical power supply.
More Containers
Construction and equipment of air-conditioned laboratory containers at the base of the tall tower.
Upgrades
2018 was the year for some upgrades to the site. The access road was re-done and a new safety rail and lift were installed at the tall tower.