To help celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Australia Telescope Compact Array, CSIROs division of, Astronomy and Space Science invites you to attend our public open day at the Paul Wild Observatory, 20km West of Narrabri, on Sunday the 1^st September. The open day will offer a rare opportunity for members of the public to go behind the scenes of one of the most powerful radio telescopes on the planet.

More than forty of our expert staff will be on hand to guide you around the observatory, answer your questions and bring you up-to-date with the latest research in radio astronomy.

Fast Facts
Date:	Sunday, 1st September, 2013 - a great day out for Fathers Day
Time:	10am - 3pm
Where:	Paul Wild Observatory, 1828 Yarrie Lake Rd Narrabri (see here for directions)
Cost:	FREE
What to Expect
	Guided tours of the Australia Telescope Compact Array antennas (Enclosed, flat, non-slip footwear (e.g. joggers) must be worn) Guided tours of the Control Building Astronomy and space science talks Radio receiver displays Ask an expert corner Solar telescope viewing Street performers CSIRO Education hands on science activities Lions Club barbecue lunch

We will be cutting a cake at 11:30 to celebrate our twenty-fifth birthday.

The Australia Telescope Compact Array comprises five twenty-two meter dish antennas, spread along a three kilometre rail track with a sixth antenna a further three kilometres to the west. The six antennas work together, as one instrument, to study the structure and evolution of the Universe. During the public open day, three of the six antennas will be open to the public, as well as the control building and computing room. Astronomy and space science talks by leading experts in radio astronomy and radio engineering will showcase the achievements of the telescope as a world leading radio astronomy instrument.

Viewing Night
If the weather is favourable, we will roll out a few optical telescopes and have an optical viewing night on the Saturday night before the open day. Everyone is invited to come along and be wowed by the wonders of our Universe.
Date:	Saturday, 31st August, 2013
Time:	6:30 - 9:00pm
Where:	Paul Wild Observatory, 1828 Yarrie Lake Rd Narrabri

 

For more information, download our ATCA factsheet or the Open Day poster.