Siding Spring 2.3 m Telescope, Optical telescope at Siding Spring Observatory, New South Wales, Australia
The Siding Spring 2.3 Meter Telescope is an optical instrument located at Siding Spring Observatory in New South Wales, featuring a primary mirror of 2.3 meters in diameter and a secondary mirror of 0.3 meters. Positioned at 1165 meters elevation, it sits inside a rotating structure that tracks celestial objects and contains specialized equipment for analyzing starlight.
Prime Minister Bob Hawke inaugurated the telescope on May 16, 1984, representing a major milestone for Australian astronomy research. Its opening allowed Australian scientists to conduct deeper observations of the sky and strengthened the country's standing in international astronomical work.
The facility demonstrates how modern astronomy works in practice, allowing visitors to see the tools and methods scientists use to study the sky. It shows the connection between advanced technology and our understanding of space, making research accessible to people of all backgrounds.
The site sits on a high plateau and is best visited when the sky is clear, as this provides the best viewing conditions. The remote location requires advance planning, as getting there takes time and nearby facilities are limited.
The mirror features an unusually thin design with a 20-to-1 ratio of thickness to diameter, allowing the glass to adjust temperature extremely fast. This engineering choice means the telescope can reach operating temperature in minutes rather than hours, a significant advantage for night observations.
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