Parkes radio telescope and visitors centre.
Parkes radio telescope group bookings
The Parkes Radio Telescope Visitors Discovery Centre is a must for all groups travelling through the Central West NSW region. Our group programs are tailored to primary and secondary students, seniors and special interest groups.
- 8 June 2005 | Updated 1 May 2012
Opening hours
- Opens seven days a week (including public holidays) 8.30 am to 4.15 pm
- Extended hours during some school holidays
- Closed Christams Day and Boxing Day.
Costs
Download The Dish - Visitors Discovery Centre Group Booking Form for the latest group rates. Teachers and coach drivers are free of charge.
A typical group visit
We are happy to work in with your schedule and tailor your visit to suit you. A typical visit includes:
- An introductory talk by one of our Visitors Discovery Centre staff members
- Viewing one or both of our theatres:
- 3D Theatre – Produced by Swinburne University's Centre for Astrophysics and Super Computing, these High Definition animated features offer a glimpse into the vast complexity of our Universe.
- The Invisible Universe - An awe-inspiring presentation delving into the relatively new scientific field of radio astronomy.
- A question and answer session with one of our Visitors Discovery Centre staff members
- Exploring the Astronomy and Space Science exhibition and science garden
- Priority access to BBQ and picnic facilities.
How to get there
The Parkes Radio Telescope is 20 kilometres north of Parkes on the Newell Highway, the main highway between Brisbane and Melbourne. The road to the telescope is clearly marked.
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Catering
The award winning Dish Café is happy to prepare a catering package to suit your needs. Contact the Dish Café on (02) 6862 1566.
