Science in an austerity world

Abstract

It’s a new academic year, a time for knuckling down and getting some serious work done. And, for many researchers on funding panels in the UK and around the world, that means deciding what research, facilities and instruments we can no longer afford. The US astronomical community is contemplating a report from the National Science Foundation’s Division of Astronomical Sciences that recommends as unavoidable the end of funding for several medium and large facilities, including the Robert C Byrd Green Bank Telescope and the Very Long Baseline Array. While this would make possible investment in innovative projects such as the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope, the threatened facilities remain valuable astronomical instruments. In difficult times, outreach becomes more important than ever, as science tries to make its voice heard at government level. Working scientists are the best advocates of the wonder and worth of the science, in the direct applications of work in economically valuable ways, in inspiring young people and in broadening and deepening human knowledge. That’s why the International Astronomical Union’s decision to become more involved in education and outreach is so significant. The immensely successful International Year of Astronomy 2009 showed what the world’s astronomers could do working together; now international links through the IAU should help make the most of this most international of subjects. Let’s hope some of the political decision-makers will be watching this space.