The future of US astronomy just dimmed by half
The National Science Foundation's choice to fund only one new telescope impacts US astronomy's future. Ground-based observatories like the Giant Magellan Telescope offer unique advantages over space-based ones. Concerns arise over the field's competitiveness and capabilities.
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The National Science Foundation's decision to invest in only one new telescope instead of the planned two has dimmed the future of US astronomy. The Giant Magellan Telescope, one of the two proposed US Extremely Large Telescopes, is crucial for advancing ground-based astronomy. The NSF's move contradicts the Astro2020 report's recommendations for a balanced portfolio of ground-based and space-based facilities. Ground-based observatories offer advantages like size, reliability, versatility, maintenance, and upgradeability over space-based ones. While philanthropic contributions support projects like the Giant Magellan Telescope and the Thirty Meter Telescope, public funding is essential for staffing and maintenance. Having only one giant telescope limits the coverage of the sky and the ability to observe transient objects efficiently. The belief that the European Extremely Large Telescope is superior overlooks the strategic advantages of existing US-based telescopes in optimal locations for ground-based optical astronomy. The decision to scale back US astronomy investments raises concerns about the field's future capabilities and competitiveness.
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