Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Radio Telescope
Proponent: International SKA Steering Committee
Total Project Value: €1B Proposed
Location: Murchison Shire
Description: Development of an international radio telescope with a total collecting area of one square kilometre. The SKA will be the world’s premier instrument for astronomical imaging and its uses will include probing back in time to investigate the origins of the universe and the formation of galaxies.
Status: Australia is in the final stages of the bid competing with South Africa to host the facility.
The Federal Government has announced, as part of the 2007-2008 budget, it will spend $56.6 Million on the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) project. This project will be a test bed for the SKA technology and will also promote Australia’s bid to host the SKA.
The Mid West Development Commission has assisted the WA SKA Taskforce prepare the tender scoping documents and overseeing:
- The Mileura Environmental Study (this document was used as an attachment with Australia’s Site Bid document for the SKA);
- Mileura Radio Astronomy Park – Master Plan.
The Commission also played an important role in the CSIRO lead SKA Site Bid Team providing:
- crucial local information for inclusion in Australia’s bid for the SKA;
- an Executive Officer role in the Site Management Committee;
- as well being an active member of the WA SKA Taskforce which later became the WA Radio Astronomy Committee.
Next Steps Time Line:
- December 2006 - Preliminary Site Ranking announced;
- 2010- Site Choice decision announced;
- 2012-2020 – Construction.
Contact:
CSIRO Australia Telescope National Facility,
PO Box 76, EPPING
NSW 1710
Ph: +61 2 9372 4300
Fax: +61 2 9372 4310
Website:
http://www.atnf.csiro.au
Mid West Development Commission Contact: CEO
Steve Douglas - 99210701