In an exciting leap forward for astronomical science, the first antennas of the world’s largest radio telescope, SKA-Low, were installed today in Western Australia’s Mid West, on Wajarri Country. This marks a crucial step in the construction of one of Earth’s most ambitious science facilities, destined to offer unprecedented views of the Universe.
The SKA-Low telescope, alongside its counterpart SKA-Mid in South Africa, is being developed by the global radio astronomy organization, the SKA Observatory (SKAO). Together, these telescopes aim to revolutionize our understanding of the cosmos. Specifically, SKA-Low will allow scientists to delve into the first billion years after the Universe’s dark ages, shedding light on the formation of the first stars and galaxies.
SKAO Director-General Prof. Phillip Diamond expressed his pride in this significant milestone, stating, “Astronomers have been dreaming of this project for decades. To see the antennas that make up the SKA-Low telescope finally on the ground is a proud moment for us all.”
Dr. Sarah Pearce, the Australia-based SKA-Low Telescope Director, highlighted the unique capabilities of the SKA telescopes. “The telescopes are like time machines, we’ll see things we’ve never been able to see in the history of humanity,” she said. The SKA-Low telescope, with its ability to map the sky over 100 times faster than current state-of-the-art telescopes, will detect the faintest radio signals that have traveled billions of light years across space.
The construction of the SKA-Low telescope is a global effort, with 16 countries, including Australia, participating. In Australia, the SKAO is collaborating with CSIRO, the national science agency, to build and operate the telescope. This week, new field technicians began the monumental task of installing over 130,000 antennas across 74 km of the observatory site in the Murchison region. Notably, seven of the ten field technicians are from the Wajarri community, reflecting a commitment to local engagement and skills development.
CSIRO Chief Executive Dr. Doug Hilton emphasized the collaborative nature of the SKA project, particularly the partnership with the Wajarri Yamaji People, the Traditional Owners of the observatory site. “Collaboration is what is bringing this project to life and that’s why it’s so exciting to welcome new team members in the joint SKAO-CSIRO traineeship program, including our new Wajarri team members,” he said.
Jamie Strickland, CEO of the Wajarri Yamaji Aboriginal Corporation, expressed pride in the project’s progress and its implications for the Wajarri Yamaji People. “It also firmly places Wajarri Yamaji People on the world stage, and clearly shows how traditional knowledge and culture can help inform today’s technology and our understanding of our place in the Universe,” he stated.
With the project set to be completed by the end of the decade, Prof. Diamond shared his excitement about the partnership with the Wajarri Yamaji People, who have observed the skies and stars from this location for tens of thousands of years. “To now be sharing those same skies and stars with them is a pleasure and privilege,” he said.
The SKA-Low telescope, supported by the Australian and Western Australian governments, stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and respect for traditional knowledge. This cosmic endeavour promises to unlock secrets of the Universe, paving the way for a new era of astronomical discovery.
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