CSIRO Parkes Observatory

CSIRO Parkes Observatory, 20 km north of Parkes in central New South Wales, is home to the 64-metre Parkes radio telescope, known as 'The Dish'. Commissioned in 1961, it is one of Australia's most important radio astronomy facilities. Operated by CSIRO, it is famous for supporting the Apollo 11 Moon landing and ongoing deep-space research, with a visitor centre offering exhibitions and telescope viewing.

Visitors can view the 64-metre radio telescope from outdoor viewing areas and a dedicated Visitors Centre. The centre features interactive science exhibitions, models, interpretive displays on astronomy and the Apollo 11 mission, a 3D theatre screening films, and a gift shop and cafe. The site is set in open rural countryside with picnic grounds, walking paths and clear views of the dish. Self-guided exploration is the main experience, with occasional guided tours and special events.

Commissioned on 31 October 1961 after construction from 1959-1961, designed with input from Barnes Wallis. Operated by CSIRO, it became a leading radio astronomy facility. It played a critical role in July 1969 by receiving and relaying live television images of the Apollo 11 Moon landing to global audiences. It is listed on the National Heritage List and continues to support pulsar, galaxy and deep-space research.

An iconic symbol of Australian science and innovation, widely known as 'The Dish' and celebrated in the 2000 Australian film The Dish. It represents Australia's contribution to space exploration and radio astronomy and is a major educational and tourism landmark for the Parkes region and central New South Wales.