Jodrell Bank

Working on cosmic rays from the University of Manchester after the Second World War, Sir Bernard Lovell (1913 – 2012) established Jodrell Bank Observatory in a rural area, away from the radio interference he was experiencing in a busy city. His observatory is still in operation and is home to the famous giant Lovell Telescope. Jodrell Bank has had substantial scientific impact in understanding meteors and the moon as well as the discovery of quasars, quantum optics, and the tracking of spacecraft. UNESCO says, “This exceptional technological ensemble illustrates the transition from traditional optical astronomy to radio astronomy (1940s to 1960s), which led to radical changes in the understanding of the universe.” So, this is the place to learn all about life, the universe and everything – well, the universe, anyway. As well as exhibitions, special events are held. In addition, there are 35 acres of gardens which include an arboretum and a playground. Jodrell Bank Observatory is owned and managed by the University of Manchester and is a world-leading science research institute, with scientists working at the cutting edge of modern astrophysics.