Data Central – Astronomical Data Portal

Data Central (datacentral.org.au) is an advanced research platform and data archive developed at AAO Macquarie. It enables researchers across disciplines to explore, collaborate, and make new discoveries by providing intuitive, web-based tools and secure long-term data storage.

At its core, Data Central is designed to solve three persistent challenges in research data management: isolation of datasets, short-term storage, and lack of interoperability. By addressing these, we maximise the legacy and scientific impact of large-scale projects.

Our ecosystem combines research tools—including powerful query services, image cutout functionality, and Virtual Observatory–compliant archives—with team support services such as secure cloud storage, content management, wikis, and collaboration portals. This makes Data Central uniquely positioned to support large, complex, and international collaborations.

Today, Data Central underpins flagship astronomy surveys and provides scalable, secure, and interoperable solutions for research teams. Whether managing terabytes of data, building bespoke project websites, or enabling seamless team collaboration, Data Central offers the infrastructure to help researchers focus on what matters most—delivering breakthrough science.