Mark II

Mark II is a radio telescope featuring an elliptical dish positioned at Jodrell Bank Observatory in Lower Withington. This large moving structure stands over 80 meters tall and collects radio waves from space to study distant objects.

The telescope was built between 1962 and 1964 through a collaboration between Sir Bernard Lovell and structural engineer Charles Husband. This period coincided with major advances in radio astronomy and the space race competition.

The Grade I listed telescope participates in the European VLBI Network, connecting astronomers across continents for advanced astronomical observations.

The site is located in a rural area and is generally visible from outside, as the observatory welcomes visitors. It is helpful to contact the facility beforehand to plan your visit and learn about viewing opportunities.

The telescope can move and track objects across the sky as it rotates. This tracking ability allows scientists to make detailed observations of the same sources over extended periods.

Location: Lower Withington

Elevation above the sea: 81.7 m

Diameter: 38.1 m

Part of: Jodrell Bank Observatory, e-MERLIN, European VLBI Network

GPS coordinates: 53.23397,-2.30390

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:05