The Canberra region is full of fantastic family adventures. But sometimes, finding a day out that is both fun and completely free feels like a mission in itself. Well, pack up the car, because your next stellar excursion is ready!
We are talking about the incredible Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex (CDSCC). This complex sits right in the beautiful Tidbinbilla Valley. It’s only about a 45-minute drive from the Canberra city centre. You might not know it, but this site plays a huge role in NASA’s Deep Space Network. Australian science is truly reaching for the stars!
The best part? This entire experience is family-friendly and free to enter.
Kids will absolutely love the visitor centre. Think of it as a museum dedicated to all things space. You can wander around the fantastic exhibits. They feature real space hardware and fascinating memorabilia. For example, have you ever wondered what astronauts eat? They have those displays too!
The star attraction, without a doubt, is the Moon rock. Yes, you can see and touch an actual piece of the Moon. This incredible rock is over 3.8 billion years old! This alone makes the trip worthwhile for curious young minds.
After exploring the indoor exhibits, be sure to head outside. The views of the massive antennas are simply breathtaking. The 70-meter dish is the largest steerable antenna in the entire Southern Hemisphere. It’s a truly impressive sight for kids and adults alike.
Furthermore, the CDSCC offers great facilities. With a lovely picnic area, you can easily turn this into a full day adventure. Since the complex is on Tourist Drive 5, you could even pair your space visit with a stop at the nearby Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve.
Get ready to take a leap into outer space with your family. It is a unique and educational Canberra experience. It also doesn’t cost a single cent!