During a conversation this evening, was reminded of a couple of visits to places that at various times I had always wanted to go. One of the first library books I took out of hte grownup section of Wareham Library was the story of the construction of Jodrell Bank, at the time, I think it was the largest sterrable radio telescope in the world. I had alwayus wanted to visit, but as it was up near Manchester I never thought I would have a chance. More on that in a bit.
First though, I spent a couple of years working in Newquay in Cornwall. That gave me a chance to visit Goonhilly, site of the ground station for the worlds first deep space communications network. I visited there in the mid 1980’s. I can remember being so impressed by the vast array of impressive dishes. It was fascinating to see, and of was still operational at that time. I am sad to see that it is , apart from very special occasions, completely closed down, a quick look at google makes it appear that the facilities are still in place.
Back then to Jodrell bank. In 2011 I was working in Warrington. Everythursday, I would drive back home to St Neots, this one particualr day I decided that I would make a diversion and visit this famous site and have a look at the telescope built by Bernard Lovell, starting in 1945, the large steerable dish became fully operational in 1957.
I am so pleased to have hadd the opportunity to visit both of these famous locations.
Bills Posts 