Michelle Barnard

SKA Observatory

The SKA Observatory is a next-generation radio astronomy driven Big Data facility that will revolutionise our understanding of the Universe and the laws of fundamental physics. Enabled by cutting-edge technology, and bringing together some of the best scientists, engineers and policymakers from more than 20 countries worldwide, it promises to have a major impact on society, in science and beyond. The SKAO is a global collaboration of Member States. Headquartered in the UK, at the historic Jodrell Bank Observatory - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - the SKAO's two telescope arrays will be constructed in Australia and South Africa, and be the two most advanced radio telescope networks on Earth. Together with other state-of-the-art research facilities, the SKAO's telescopes will explore the unknown frontiers of science and deepen our understanding of key processes, including the formation and evolution of galaxies, fundamental physics in extreme environments and the origins of life. Through the development of innovative technologies and its contribution to addressing societal challenges, the SKAO will play its part to address the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals and deliver significant benefits across its membership and beyond.