About Pulse@Parkes
Through the PULSE@Parkes program, high school students take control of Murriyang our Parkes radio telescope to observe pulsars under the guidance of professional astronomers.
Pulsars, the rapidly spinning remnants of stars after supernova explosions, are studied by astronomers to test the fundamental laws of physics. They have allowed us to investigate the stability of atomic clocks on Earth, and might even help us to detect the gravitational waves predicted by Albert Einstein.
Over the course of a two hour session, high school students may discover a new pulsar, identify unusual ones or detect sudden glitches in their rotation. The data collected is added to a growing database of results and is used by astronomers for ongoing research. Sessions are held onsite in our headquarters at Marsfield, Sydney or online so that schools across Australia can participate.
The program is designed for students in the senior years of high school (Years 10 to 12). There is a simple application process for schools to be involved, and it's free to participate.
