All scientific work conducted using the UK's largest telescope at Jodrell Bank Observatory could conclude within the next two years. The government has opted to withdraw funding for the Cheshire site, aiming to redirect investment towards projects deemed to deliver long-term impact.
The University of Manchester, which owns the UNESCO World Heritage Site, is now attempting to secure alternative funding before 2028. Astronomers have criticised the move, calling it "short-sighted" and a substantial setback for the UK's research capabilities.
The observatory, founded by Sir Bernard Lovell, is home to the 250 ft wide Lovell Telescope, completed in 1957. This radio telescope detects signals from distant celestial objects, converting them into scientific data. It also connects with the UK's e-MERLIN network, which includes five other telescopes, to enhance its capabilities.
The Lovell Telescope, despite being surpassed in size by newer instruments, has undergone continuous modernisation and remains crucial to the UK's radio astronomy. The funding cut by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) agency could also lead to the loss of 28 jobs if new funding is not found.