Sardinia Radio Telescope, Radio telescope in San Basilio, Italy.
The Sardinia Radio Telescope is a large radio observatory near San Basilio that detects radio signals from space. It features a movable dish covered with many aluminum panels, allowing researchers worldwide to conduct observations of distant galaxies and cosmic objects.
Construction started in 2003 and the telescope began observing in 2012. The project grew from cooperation between several European research institutions aiming to advance radio astronomy research across the continent.
The facility welcomes visitors with guided tours and demonstrations about radio astronomy. You can learn how researchers use radio waves to study the universe and discover distant objects in space.
The site is located in Sardinia's mountainous region and is best reached by car along winding roads. Visitors should arrange in advance, as guided tours are available only at scheduled times and require prior booking.
The structure has over a thousand mechanical actuators that continuously fine-tune the mirror panels during observations to keep them perfectly aligned. These tiny motors work together to prevent temperature changes or the weight itself from warping the shape.
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