Formed in 1890, the British Astronomical Association has an international reputation for the quality of its observational and scientific work. Membership is open to all persons interested in astronomy.
Objectives
The encouragement of all aspects of observational astronomy and the association of observers at all levels for mutual help.
The promotion of a general interest in astronomy for beginners as well as for the more advanced.
The circulation of current astronomical information and observational material.
The support of modern advanced techniques for observation, data handling and scientific presentation of results.
The presentation of medals and prizes in recognition of outstanding contributions to astronomy.
Cuts planned for UK Astronomy
You may be alarmed to hear that the future of research into astronomy
here in the UK is under threat owing to recent announcements by the
government. In particular, there have been dramatic developments
within the Science and Technology Facilities Council or STFC: the
research council that funds astronomy research in the UK. What seems
to have happened is a fundamental shift in what the Council and the
government see as research priorities, with severe cuts planned in
research areas such as Astronomy and Particle Physics.
These cuts will lead to the closure of / withdrawal from a large number
of major telescope facilities. In the area of ground-based astronomy,
withdrawal from the Isaac Newton Telescope Group on La Palma, and from
Gemini South are pretty much decided, but Gemini North, UKIRT, and the
Liverpool Telescope in Hawaii are also under threat (we have already
pulled out of the Anglo-Australian Telescope). This will be
accompanied by cuts in research grants to universities which use these
facilities. Likewise, Solar Physics and Space Astronomy will be hit.
In short, astronomy research in the UK, currently amongst the best in
the world, will really suffer.
All of this came with little warning, and with little consultation with
the research community, and at a time when the government is concerned
about the number of students taking up science topics in schools and at
universities.
which states, "We the undersigned petition the Prime Minister to
reverse the decision to cut vital UK contributions to Particle Physics
and Astronomy."
If you wish to offer your support, and have not done so already, you may add your name to this fast-growing petition by going to the above web address and following the directions on signing the petition.
In my view, this is the most serious threat to UK Astronomy in decades and so any help you can offer will be greatly appreciated.
Richard Miles
Vice-President
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N.B. Background information is available at various websites including:
You may be alarmed to hear that the future of research into astronomy
here in the UK is under threat owing to recent announcements by the
government. In particular, there have been dramatic developments
within the Science and Technology Facilities Council or STFC: the
research council that funds astronomy research in the UK. What seems
to have happened is a fundamental shift in what the Council and the
government see as research priorities, with severe cuts planned in
research areas such as Astronomy and Particle Physics.