Well sort of… for many UK astronomers who in February will lose access to two of the world’s best telescopes.
The reason? It’s the result of the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) cutting off payment fees for the use of the Gemini North and Gemini South Telescopes.
I have always had an interest in astronomy and using my own telescope (TAL-120) I have always enjoyed my use of it even through the ever increasing light pollution that affects the UK night sky. Even though I only use my telescope infrequently due to other distractions, I would miss not being able to use it when I wanted, so I understand the mounting frustrations around this decision. See here for the full story.
It seems a bit crazy to me that the government is cutting funding to the STFC, but I wonder if its anything to do with the obscene amount of money that is being dropped into that black hole called Northern Rock!
I hope the STFC can find another way to somehow refinance these payment fees before they expire and get our research astronomers back online.
Beasley's Place 