Home / Science / UK Astronomy Faces Crisis as Deep Space Observatory Funding Cut
UK Astronomy Faces Crisis as Deep Space Observatory Funding Cut
27 Jul
Summary
- Jodrell Bank Observatory, a key UK radio astronomy facility, may close.
- Funding for the e-Merlin network will be withdrawn in March 2028.
- The decision threatens 28 jobs and impacts nearly 3,000 researchers.
Jodrell Bank Observatory, a prominent UK deep space facility, is at risk of closure due to a significant funding cut.
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) will withdraw financial support for the e-Merlin network, the nation's primary radio astronomy facility, when the current agreement expires in March 2028. This decision has been met with alarm by scientists.
Professor Catherine Heymans, Scotland's astronomer royal, described the potential closure of this world-leading facility as "devastating." The observatory hosts the Grade I-listed Lovell telescope and is crucial for studying distant celestial objects and phenomena.
The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), funded by UKRI, cited severe cost overruns necessitating prioritized investment. They aim to focus resources on future world-leading radio astronomy facilities. This decision directly impacts 28 jobs at Jodrell Bank and affects the research of nearly 3,000 scientists who utilize its capabilities.
