Hydrogen Intensity and Real-time Analysis eXperiment, Radio telescope array in Karoo region, South Africa
The Hydrogen Intensity and Real-time Analysis eXperiment is a radio telescope array in the Karoo region that uses hundreds of parabolic reflectors arranged across the landscape. This collection of dishes works together to detect and record signals coming from distant parts of the universe.
The project started in 2017 with a small prototype at another observatory before being expanded in the Karoo. This growth reflects the growing interest in observing the sky using new approaches.
Scientists and researchers from South Africa, the United States, and Canada collaborate at HIRAX to study astronomical phenomena and advance cosmological understanding.
The location in the Karoo offers clear, dark skies with minimal light pollution, which is important for accurate observations. Visitors should know that this is an active research facility and access may be limited.
The array relies on Earth's rotation instead of mechanical movements to scan the sky. This clever approach enables continuous observations without complicated turning mechanisms.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
