Open: The Information Centre is open seven days from 8am to 4pm, but is unmanned. Guided tours for large groups can be organised by phoning ahead.
Phone: 02 6790 4000
Website: http://www.narrabri.atnf.csiro.au
Email: narrabri@atnf.csiro.au
The Dish times six! Satisfy your scientific curiosities at the most advanced radio telescope in the southern hemisphere, located 25km west of Narrabri at the Paul Wild Observatory. Discover the magic that draws scientists from around the world in their quest to unlock the secrets of the universe.
Consisting of six 22m wide dish antennas, the CSIRO Australia Telescope compact array is truly a site to behold. A 3km long rail track holds five of the 270-tonne dishes, while the sixth is fixed approximately 5km to the west. The antennas work together to simulate a much larger antenna, allowing astronomers to observe very fine detail. Their combined power simulates a single antenna with a 6km diameter.
The telescope Information Centre can answer all your questions, while a regularly updated video showcases some of the “out-of-this-universe” photos captured by the antennas. Check out the computers for up-to-the-minute particulars on what is being tracked. Interactive exhibits provide a world of fascination for young and old. Even those who find the science a little bewildering will be captivated by the whispering dishes.
The CSIRO Australia Telescope is located on the Yarrie Lake Road 25 kilometres from Narrabri. From the Visitor Information Centre, take the Newell Highway towards Coonabarabran. Turn right at the BP Service Station into Ugoa St, past the showground complex and then follow the Australia Telescope signs, which will take you left into Walowa Street and then right into Goobar Street. Continue on this road for about 20 kilometres until you get to a sign that points to the Australia Telescope on the right. Note: Distant radio signals can be easily drowned out by local sources of radio energy so please switch off your mobile phones and transmitters when you enter the site
Information supplied by the Information Centre