See + Do = Learn

Activities

Get ready for an unforgettable journey though architecturally stunning country towns, thoughtfully curated galleries, captivating museums and historic sites. Your visit here will take you outdoors over rich agricultural river flats, through untouched National Parks and even underground to magnificent prehistoric caves.

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Parkes Obervatory

585 Telescope Road,
Parkes, New South Wales, 2870

Contacts
Email: parkes-vdc@csiro.au
Phone: 02 6861 1777
Online Bookings: Click here to book
Website: www.csiro.au/parkes

Located 20 kilometres north of Parkes off the Newell Highway, the CSIRO's Parkes Observatory is home to the world-famous 'Dish'.At 64 metres in diameter, it was the first fully steerable large antenna in the Southern Hemisphere. This impressive structure is still a world-leading scientific instrument and is operated 24 hours a day.Since its commissioning in 1961, Parkes Observatory has been responsible for many world firsts in radio astronomy.The discovery centre - built virtually in the shadow of the Dish - has a range of interactive displays, and an excellent astronomy resource centre with souvenirs, science toys and books.The educational 3D theatre showcases both informative and awe-inspiring adventures across the Universe.Enjoy a coffee stop or a meal at the award-winning Dish Cafe or make use of the free gas barbecues.School excursions and special interest groups are welcome.