Share to ClassroomUK Cuts Money for Jodrell Bank
Jodrell Bank Observatory in England may close. It has Britain's biggest radio telescope. The telescope is almost 70 years old. UKRI (the UK science money group) will stop paying for it in 2028. Then all research at the site will stop. About 28 people may lose their jobs.
UKRI says it must spend its money on other projects. Electricity and staff cost more now. Jodrell Bank opened in 1945. Scientists there study how stars and planets are born. They also study black holes and dark matter. During the Cold War, the telescope watched Soviet missiles.
Many scientists are angry about the decision. One professor said the plan was too fast and badly thought out. The observatory wants to fight the plan. It hopes to earn money by following satellites. Other British science projects will lose money too. About 800 people may lose their jobs.
