Visiting China’s FAST Telescope: A Traveler’s Guide to the ‘Sky Eye’ in Guizhou
Walk China’s ‘Sky Eye’ — FAST Observatory in Guizhou
Introduction:
Nestled in the karst mountains of Guizhou, a 500-meter silver ring lies quietly in a valley like a mysterious device from another world. This is the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST), nicknamed China’s ‘Sky Eye’ — the most sensitive instrument humans have built to listen to the cosmos. For stargazers, sci-fi fans, and curious travelers, a visit here is a close-up encounter with cutting-edge science and a journey that connects Earth to billions of light-years away.
1. A Super Project of Cosmic Exploration
‘Humanity’s radio to listen to the heartbeat of the universe’
Officially named the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST), the facility covers an area equivalent to about 30 standard football fields and is roughly ten times more sensitive than the Bonn radio telescope in Germany. Each reflective panel of its dish can be precisely adjusted, forming a dynamic mosaic that captures faint electromagnetic waves from deep space. Since coming online in 2016, FAST has discovered more than 800 pulsars — the universe’s lighthouses — and has joined international efforts to search for extraterrestrial signals, reshaping our understanding of neutral hydrogen, interstellar molecules, and dark matter.
Karst geology and a harmonious siting
Choosing Pingtang County in Guizhou was no accident: the natural karst sinkhole matches the telescope’s bowl shape, saving nearly one million cubic meters of excavation. Engineers developed innovative solutions to manage groundwater in the karst bedrock, creating a remarkable harmony between advanced technology and the natural landscape. From above, the silver FAST dish set against green peaks looks like a surreal ‘eye’ in the mountains.
2. Immersive Astronomy Experience Guide
Core experiences
– FAST Viewing Platform: Walk a suspended walkway with 720 steps to reach panoramic views of the dish. In morning mist the surface shimmers like liquid mercury; at night it becomes a huge mirror reflecting the starry sky.
– Astronomy Experience Center: Interactive exhibits let you simulate receiving pulsar signals, operate a FAST model, or take a 3D cinematic trip through the universe in the planetarium. Don’t miss the moon soil samples and the FAST construction documentary.
– Night-time Stargazing: The surrounding low-light valleys are perfect for astronomy. With advance reservation you can use professional telescopes to view objects discovered by FAST.
Hidden activities
– ‘Sky Eye Light Show’ (summer nights only): Laser projections turn scientific data into an immersive art performance.
– Cosmic Post Office: Send a postcard stamped with the official FAST commemorative postmark.
– Visit Bouyei villages nearby to hear locals tell how the ‘big bowl’ changed their lives and to taste regional specialties.
3. Practical Information and Local Insights
Itinerary suggestions
– Half-day: Viewing platform + astronomy center — ideal for families and science fans.
– Full-day: Add Kedu Town’s astronomy-themed area and Bouyei cultural experiences (try the local sour soup fish at the ‘Sky Eye Guesthouse’).
– Best times: Avoid harsh midday light; the hour before and after sunset offers the most dramatic views. Note: Tuesday is maintenance day and only limited areas are open.
Transport tips
– From Guiyang: Approximately a 2.5-hour drive (stop at the ‘Sky Bridge’ rest area to overlook the Pingtang Grand Bridge).
– Public transport: From Guiyang Jinyang Bus Station take the Guiyang–Kedu coach, then transfer to the park shuttle (about 4 hours total).
– Important: Core zones prohibit personal electronic devices — these must be stored. Film cameras and sketching tools are allowed.
Costs and services
– Basic ticket (viewing platform + astronomy center): CNY 130 for adults; students half price.
– Audio guide rental: CNY 20 (available in Chinese and English).
– Local meals: Around CNY 50–80 per person; try local salt-pickled vegetables with pork.
4. Why FAST Redefines Modern Travel
This is not a street of old shops and local bustle; it’s a place of cosmic fireworks. Every faint signal FAST captures is a cross-time conversation with the universe. Standing on the viewing platform facing this human-made marvel, you may recall Stephen Hawking’s advice: ‘Look up at the stars and not down at your feet.’
Call to action:
Add FAST to your Guizhou itinerary. Whether for a child’s science awakening or your own cosmic curiosity, this trip reframes Earth’s place in the vast universe. Remember to book ahead on the official website (English version available) to secure a deeper encounter with this celestial ‘eye’.
