Goonhilly Downs
50° 13' 14" N 5° 14' 54" WGoonhilly Downs, most of which being an SSSI, is composed of sparse heathland based on underlying serpentine geology.
The site is also home to the Goonhilly Satellite Earth Station, the largest of its kind in the world. Goonhilly Downs were chosen by the General Post Office (GPO) to house its experimental satellite communication ground station because of the low horizon, firm rock base and lack of industrial interference. On 11th January 1962 the first inter-continental picture was transmitted across the Atlantic from Goonhilly by way of the artificial satellite Telstar.
The Earth Station was once a very popular tourist attraction visited by tens of thousands of people every year, but closed to the public in 2014. Now it is developing the capability to support the exploration of lunar and deep space for institutions and private enterprises.
The iconic satellite dishes can be seen for miles, dominating the west coast of the Lizard Peninsula.
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- Carpark (Free)
- Dogs allowed (All year)
History of Goonhilly Downs
Goonhilly Downs is a moorland located on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, that has a rich history in communications. In the 1960s, the site became home to Goonhilly Earth Station, one of the world’s first satellite communications facilities.
In 1962, the first transatlantic satellite broadcast was made from Goonhilly Downs to the United States, and the site quickly became a key player in the global communications network. Over the years, Goonhilly Earth Station has played a vital role in numerous groundbreaking communications projects, including the launch of the first Intelsat satellite in 1965, the first live transatlantic television broadcast in 1969, and the first digital exchange in the UK in 1980.
In the 21st century, Goonhilly Earth Station has continued to evolve and adapt to new technologies, including the development of satellite broadband services and the establishment of deep-space communication links with NASA’s spacecraft.
Today, Goonhilly Earth Station is recognised as an important center for satellite communication and technology development, and its iconic dishes are a familiar sight to visitors and residents of Cornwall. The site also hosts educational programs and outreach initiatives to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Travel / Parking information for Goonhilly Downs
Directions to Goonhilly Downs
Goonhilly Downs can be seen from a long distance away due to the large satelitte station. From Helston follow signs towards St Keverne where you will reach the downs.
Parking for Goonhilly Downs
If travelling towards St Keverne from Helston there is a small car park on your right hand side just after the turning to the satellite station. This is a nature reserve car park and is free for visitors.