KAT-7

KAT-7 is a radio interferometer in South Africa's Meerkat National Park with seven antennas designed to detect signals from space using radio technology. The facility was built to test methods for combining data from multiple antennas to create detailed views of distant objects in the sky.

The radio interferometer was completed in 2011 as an experimental platform to test new technologies for advanced telescope systems. It laid groundwork for the development of larger astronomical observation arrays in the region.

The KAT-7 interferometer represents South Africa's commitment to scientific advancement through radio astronomy research and international collaboration in space exploration.

The site is located in a remote protected area, so you need to plan your visit in advance and check access requirements beforehand. The surrounding region has specific rules to protect the natural environment and research operations.

The facility achieved a milestone by connecting just four of its antennas and successfully detecting extremely faint signals from space. This breakthrough showed that the interferometry method could work effectively in this particular location.

Elevation above the sea: 1,100 m

Diameter: 12 m

Part of: South African Radio Astronomy Observatory

Website: http://ska.ac.za

GPS coordinates: -30.72100,21.41100

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:07