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Exploring the Parkes Radio Telescope: A Must-See Landmark

On our travels through New South Wales, we couldn’t resist making a stop at the Parkes Radio Telescope. As huge fans of space and science, this iconic landmark was a definite must-see, and it did not disappoint.

The Parkes Observatory, also known as “The Dish,” is located just outside the town of Parkes, and its towering structure is hard to miss. This massive radio telescope is one of the most important in the world, playing a key role in deep space research and communication with spacecraft.

We were lucky enough to join a 3D video presentation, where we learned about its fascinating history and how it was instrumental in relaying the famous footage of the Apollo 11 Moon landing in 1969. The telescope’s role in that momentous event is still one of its proudest achievements. The presentation shared some incredible insights about the science behind the telescope, how it works, and its current projects. It was so interesting to see how a piece of technology this big and important still contributes to space exploration today.

What we really loved about the Parkes Radio Telescope is that it’s more than just a scientific landmark—it’s also a great place to enjoy the views and the surrounding countryside. We spent time walking around the observatory’s grounds, taking in the sheer size of the dish and the surrounding landscape. The whole experience felt incredibly humbling.

If you’re ever in the area, a visit to Parkes and its radio telescope is well worth it. Whether you're into science, space, or just enjoy seeing something truly unique, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

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