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Radio Telescopes

Radio astronomy lets you observe the universe in daylight, through clouds and from the middle of a city. A radio telescope does not take pictures. It measures the strength of radio signals across the sky, and from that you can map the neutral hydrogen of the Milky Way, see the rotation of our galaxy and follow radio activity on the Sun.

We carry the SPIDER radio telescopes designed by Radio2Space in Italy, from the compact SPIDER 230C to larger dishes for schools, universities and serious amateurs. They are complete systems with dish, mount, receiver and control software.

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$17,350.00 USD - $17,350.00 USD
$17,350.00 USD
$17,350.00 USD - $17,350.00 USD
$17,350.00 USD

Radio2Space SPIDER 230C 2.3m Compact Radio Telescope

2.3-meter compact radio telescope kit for 1420 MHz WEB230-5 prime focus aluminum mesh antenna H142-PRO receiver with 50 MHz bandwidth radiometer 1...

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$17,350.00 USD - $17,350.00 USD
$17,350.00 USD
$17,350.00 USD - $17,350.00 USD
$17,350.00 USD

What You Can Observe

  • Hydrogen line at 1420 MHz: Neutral hydrogen emits at a wavelength of 21 cm. Measuring its Doppler shift along the Milky Way reveals spiral arm structure and galactic rotation.
  • The Sun: Solar radio emission is strong and changes with activity, which makes it an excellent first target.
  • Strong radio sources: Bright sources such as Cassiopeia A and the Cygnus region can be detected with larger dishes.
  • Education: Radio telescopes are ideal for classrooms because observing can happen during school hours.

Installation

A SPIDER needs a stable base, a clear view of the sky and a cable run to the control computer. Larger dishes are usually installed permanently. We help you plan the location and mounting before you order.

Radio Telescopes: Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a radio licence?

No. These telescopes only receive signals. They do not transmit.

Can a radio telescope work in the city?

Yes, though local interference from Wi-Fi, cell towers and electronics can affect some frequencies. Hydrogen line work at 1420 MHz is in a protected band.

Is it suitable for a school?

Very. Students can observe in daylight and work with real scientific data. We can help with the project plan.

Interested in radio astronomy?

Tell us about your site and your goals, whether for a school or personal research. We will help you choose the right SPIDER.