Crossword Genius

Scope trained at this place where life can be observed (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ecosphere

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'where life can be observed' is the definition.
The definition suggests a singular noun which matches the answer.

'scope trained at this place' is the wordplay.
'trained' indicates anagramming the letters (to train can mean to grow something into a shape).
'at this place' becomes 'here' (here in this place).
'scope' with letters rearranged gives 'ecosp'.
'ecosp'+'here'='ECOSPHERE'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ecosphere that I've seen before include "Core sheep (anag.)" , "Region where life is possible" , "Parts of the earth where life can exist" , "Region of planet where life exists" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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