An Australian innovation developed by astronomers and engineers at the CSIRO for their ASKAP radio telescope is able to rapidly detect mysterious fast radio bursts and unusual space phenomena.

The new CRACO technology processes vast amounts of data – over 100 billion pixels per second, allowing astronomers to find and locate signals more efficiently than ever before. This enables researchers to swiftly detect space anomalies and cosmic events in order to obtain more data and complete their own analysis.

The specialised ‘CRACO’ system will soon be accessible to astronomers worldwide, revolutionising Australia’s reputation as a leader in radio astronomy, engineering and research.

Image: ShutterShock – zhengzaishuru

Produced By: Maeve Groom

Featured In Story: Dr Laura Driessen: Radio Astronomer at the University of Sydney

First aired on The Wire, Wednesday 29 January 2025