Jodrell Bank Observatory facing closure after major funder cuts support
Summary
Jodrell Bank Observatory, a major UK radio telescope facility, faces closure after its main funder, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), decided to stop supporting it after March 2028. This decision will end important space research and affect many scientists and staff unless new funding is found.Key Facts
- Jodrell Bank Observatory operates a network of radio telescopes important for studying space phenomena like galaxies and black holes.
- The Lovell telescope at the observatory is a protected, historically significant structure (Grade I-listed).
- UKRI announced it will stop funding the observatory’s national radio astronomy network, e-Merlin, after March 2028.
- The funding cut is part of budget adjustments due to rising costs and overspending within UKRI's science funding bodies.
- Around 28 jobs at the observatory are at risk due to this funding withdrawal.
- Nearly 3,000 researchers use Jodrell Bank for their scientific work, which could be disrupted.
- Authorities say they are prioritizing investment in newer radio astronomy projects that promise greater long-term benefits.
- Scientists have expressed deep concern about the impact of closing this world-leading facility.
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