The scientific director of a joint bid by New Zealand and Australia to host the world's largest radio telescope says he is confident the proposal is still under close consideration.
The two countries are seeking to secure the Square Kilometre Array and build it on a remote sheep station in Western Australia, but face tough competition from South Africa.
Foreign news reports say a panel has endorsed South Africa as the scientifically superior location.
But Australian project director Brian Boyle says he is confident the joint bid still has a strong prospect of securing the project.
Mr Boyle says the panel's recommendation will be the beginning of the decision-making process, rather than the final result.
