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The acoustic mirrors at Fan Bay are a pair of concrete structures constructed during the First World War as part of Britain's coastal defence against aerial attack. Dating to around 1916-1917, these monuments represent an experimental sound-detection technology designed to amplify the noise of approaching enemy aircraft before radar systems were developed. Each mirror comprises a large concave reflective surface positioned to focus acoustic waves towards a listening point, allowing observers to detect and locate aircraft at greater distances. Located on the Kent coast near Dover, these structures demonstrate the innovative defensive measures adopted during the Great War and remain among the best-preserved examples of their kind in Britain.
A pair of acoustic mirrors at Fan Bay is a scheduled monument protected by Historic England under reference 1442235. View the official record →
The acoustic mirrors at Fan Bay are a pair of concrete structures constructed during the First World War as part of Britain's coastal defence against aerial attack. It is designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument by Historic England (NHLE) under reference 1442235.
A pair of acoustic mirrors at Fan Bay is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, legally protected by Historic England (NHLE) — the body responsible for designating and safeguarding heritage sites in England. The official designation reference is 1442235.
Several scheduled monuments lie within 10 km, including St James' Church (3.2 km), Saxon shore fort bastion, Queen Street (3.6 km), St Martin's Church (3.6 km).
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Research the area around A pair of acoustic mirrors at Fan Bay