Nobel Laureate Joe Taylor, K1JT, was the guest of honor April 5, pushing the ceremonial button to reopen the restored 25 meter Dwingeloo Radio Telescope in the Netherlands. The dish will see some Amateur Radio use on 23 centimeters.

The CAMRAS Foundation manages the Dwingeloo Radio Telescope, which had remained largely idle since 1997. Its owner is the Dutch Institute for Radio Astronomy (ASTRON). Queen Juliana and Jan Oort , founder of radio astronomy in the Netherlands, were present at the telescope’s inauguration on April 17, 1956.

For about 60 youngsters of various ages the re-opening festivities featured activities on astronomy and modern technology, including a discussion with the children about science and technology. With the renovation complete the radiotelescope will be used by Amateur Radio, amateur astronomers, and by and for budding researchers.

Peter Jelgersma, PA8A, has told ARRL that the giant dish will be put to use on 1296 MHz and perhaps elsewhere. The Dwingeloo Radiotelescope for several years has been used by Dutch radio amateurs for EME work, including during the ARRL EME Contest.