Jodrell Bank Observatory facing closure after major funder cuts support
Scientists say decision is blow to UK astronomy as deep space observatory is home to world-leading facilities Jodrell Bank Observatory, the hub of a world-leading network of radio telescopes, is facing closure after government funding for the facility was slashed. The deep space observatory includes the Grade I-listed Lovell telescope and is prized by astronomers who study galaxies, black holes,…
Jodrell Bank Observatory, a world-leading deep space observatory, is facing closure due to government funding cuts for the UK's national radio astronomy facility. The observatory, home to the Grade I-listed Lovell telescope and other cutting-edge facilities, is expected to lose its funding from e-Merlin, a UK-wide radio astronomy network, when the current agreement expires in March 2028.
Scientists, including Scotland's astronomer royal Prof Catherine Heymans, have expressed their devastation over the decision, which could result in the end of observations at Jodrell Bank and potentially thousands of job losses. Brian Cox, a renowned TV scientist, criticized the decision, stating that it was a result of hasty and ill-considered choices made by UKRI.
The UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has an annual budget of nearly £10 billion, but the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), which funds the facility, needs to make significant savings due to soaring electricity costs, high staff expenses, and foreign exchange rates for international collaborations. While STFC claims it made the cuts through a rigorous prioritization process focusing on areas that deliver the greatest long-term scientific capability and value, many scientists and astronomers argue that the decision threatens the UK's scientific future and the inspiration of future generations.
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