The Jodrell Bank Observatory (originally the Jodrell Bank Experimental Station, then the Nuffield Radio Astronomy Laboratories from 1966-1999) is near Macclesfield. The Observatory is now part of the University of Manchester and has played an important role in the research of quasars and pulsars. In 1979, scientists at Jodrell Bank announced the first detection of a gravitational lens; which confirmed Einstein's theory of general relativity.

The Lovell Telescope has stood over Cheshire for over 40 years. It is the flagship of the Jodrell Bank Observatory. The Observatory is a place of learning, teaching and research for the many engineers, astronomers and students who develop and use the radio telescopes, many Manchester astronomers also use X-ray, optical, infrared and millimetre-wave instruments across the globe and in space to make complementary observations. Jodrell Bank is also a place of wonder and inspiration for the estimated 140,000 who visit the Science Centre each year.

Statistics of the Lovell Telescope

Lat./Long.53°14'13.2N, 2°18'25.74W
Mass of telescope: 3200 t
Mass of bowl: 1500 t
Diameter of bowl: 76.2 m = 250 feet
Surface area of bowl: 5270 m² = 1.3 acres
Collecting area of bowl: 4560 m² = 1.127 acres
Height of elevation axis: 50.5 m = 165.68 feet
Maximum height above ground: 89.0 m = 292 feet
Radius of wheel girders: 38.5 m = 126.31 feet
Outer diameter of railway track: 107.5 m = 352.690 feet
Amount of paint for 3 coats of the bowl: 5200 L