UK Schmidt Telescope

The UK Schmidt Telescope contains a 1.2-meter Schmidt camera system capturing detailed images of astronomical objects in the southern hemisphere.

The telescope initiated operations in 1973 under British management before transferring to Australian control through the Anglo-Australian Observatory in 1988.

British and Australian scientists collaborate at this facility, conducting research projects and sharing astronomical data across international institutions.

The telescope records approximately 700 photographic plates annually, which researchers store at the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh for scientific analysis.

The telescope features two 254-millimeter guide telescopes with photoelectric offsetting autoguiders that enable tracking at varying celestial rates.

Location: New South Wales

Inception: 1973

Official opening: August 17, 1973

Diameter: 1.2 m

Website: https://www.aao.gov.au/about-us/uk-schmidt-telescope

Part of: Siding Spring Observatory, Australian Astronomical Observatory

Website: https://aao.gov.au/about-us/uk-schmidt-telescope

GPS coordinates: -31.27223,149.07123

Latest update: April 29, 2025 20:01