Radio Telescope, Parkes

This 64 metre diameter radio telescope was conceived by Dr E G Bowen of the Division of Radiophysics to further its pioneering research.

Designed by Freeman Fox & Partners to a CSIRO specification and commissioned in 1961, it allowed exploration of the universe in greater detail than previously possible.

Acclaimed for its innovative design and precision engineering, many features have been adopted in later radio telescopes. Excellent engineering, together with advances in electronics and computing have kept the Parkes Observatory at the forefront of radio astronomy.

Parkes Radio Telescope.

Detail of the dish structure of the Parkes Radio Telescope.

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Parkes Radio Telescope location map.

Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	National Engineering Landmark (NEL)
Award Date	March 1997
Heritage Significance	Excellent engineering, together with advances in electronics and computing have kept the Parkes Observatory at the forefront of radio astronomy.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Booklet	Not vailable.
Interpretation Panel	None Installed.