One of the world's most advanced observatories will continue to play a major part in space exploration as its funding has been secured.

Funding was in doubt for Jodrell Bank but enough money has been guaranteed to keep the Cheshire astronomy centre running for the next few years.

The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) said Deutsche Bank posts first qtly. loss in five years ...
Black holes reveal more secrets ... it would contribute to the operating costs.

The observatory discovered new planets and tracked the Apollo moon landings.

The STFC were unsure they would be able to fund the observatory, home of the landmark Lovell telescope, after an £80m shortfall in its budget.

But thanks to the leading role it plays in the eMerlin project, which examines "space weather" and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project - a giant next-generation radio telescope, funding was secured.

The Manchester University-owned observatory is the national facility for radio astronomy and aims to improve links between the dishes to make the radio telescopes 30 times more powerful.

Professor Alan Gilbert, said: "We are delighted that the STFC has recognised the scientific importance of eMerlin and the Square Kilometer Array, and that they have provided a commitment to fund these important projects, which will guarantee the future of Jodrell Bank."

(BBC)

<< Back