Jodrell Bank fears funding loss (BBC)

[eppur_se_muova]

Scientists at one of the world's most advanced observatories are facing an uncertain future, with a closure threat hanging over its flagship project.

Jodrell Bank in Cheshire, home of the landmark Lovell Telescope, is part of a network of seven giant astronomy dishes in the eMerlin project.

The Science and Technology Facilities Council is struggling to finance it.

A Jodrell Bank spokesman said it opposed any cut backs and would push for eMerlin to keep its funding.

The project is at risk because the STFC has an £80m shortfall in its budget; and an assessment panel has listed the project as a "lower priority" for UK physics and astronomy.
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more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/manchester/7281176.stm