Conrad Shawcross warns of Jodrell Bank Observatory closure amid UKRI funding cuts
UK artist Conrad Shawcross voiced his worries regarding the possible shutdown of the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Lovell Telescope, which has been operational for nearly 70 years. The Lovell Telescope, inaugurated in 1957, is a component of the e-Merlin network. Due to rising expenses, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) plans to discontinue its £2.8m yearly grant by March 2028. Shawcross, whose pieces are featured in the 'Curious Universe: Cosmic Titans' exhibition until 20 September, emphasized the observatory's importance for astronomer training. A petition advocating for its preservation has garnered over 13,000 signatures, with 28 jobs at risk, while the museum receives separate funding from the University of Manchester.
Key facts
- UKRI will cut its £2.8m annual grant to Jodrell Bank Observatory when the current funding term ends in March 2028.
- Jodrell Bank is a Unesco World Heritage Site in Cheshire, home to the Lovell Telescope, launched in 1957.
- Conrad Shawcross has two works in the exhibition 'Curious Universe: Cosmic Titans' at the observatory until 20 September.
- A petition to save Jodrell Bank has over 13,000 signatures.
- Jodrell Bank supports nearly 3,000 scientists; 28 jobs could be lost without alternative funding.
- The on-site museum is funded separately and is not subject to closure.
- UKRI released a position statement factsheet on 31 July.
- The Lovell Telescope is part of the e-Merlin network, a seven-telescope system in England.
Entities
Artists
- Conrad Shawcross
Institutions
- Jodrell Bank Observatory
- UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
- University of Manchester
- The Art Newspaper
- BBC
- Museums Journal
Locations
- Cheshire
- England
- United Kingdom