Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory

The Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory is a research facility with several radio telescopes for observing space. It includes a synthesis telescope with seven antennas, a 26-meter radio telescope, and an instrument that monitors radiation from the sun.

The facility opened in 1960 as Canada's main center for radio astronomy research. It has played a key role in developing technologies for observing the cosmos.

Scientists and students from universities around the world collaborate here to study radio waves from space. Their work has helped develop new ways to observe and understand the cosmos.

The site is located in a rural area, so it is best to arrive by car and check ahead about which areas are open to visitors. Plan for enough time since this is an active research facility with limited public access.

The facility houses the CHIME telescope, which has mapped an enormous portion of space by detecting hydrogen gas. This breakthrough allows astronomers to study the cosmos in ways that were not previously possible.

Location: British Columbia

Inception: 1960

Official opening: 1960

Elevation above the sea: 545.671 m

Website: https://nrc.canada.ca/en/research-development/nrc-facilities/dominion-radio-astrophysical-observatory-research-facility

GPS coordinates: 49.32075,-119.62081

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:58