Associated Universities, Inc. unites the resources of universities, research organizations and the Federal Government in the planning, construction, and operation of forefront scientific facilities that promote discovery and education while expanding our knowledge of the physical world.
Portfolio Review
Community Forum
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Clive Dickinson, Dr, University of Manchester
Posted on: April 25, 2013
I am a Reader of astrophysics at Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics at the University of Manchester (U.K.). I am amazed that the closure of the GBT facility is even being considered. A lot of money has been put into this telescope, which really is state-of-the-art in more ways than one (largest fully steerable, active surface etc.). Furthermore, a number of new receivers are being developed for the GBT which will keep it at the forefront of single-dish radio astronomy. I've used the GBT several times and it really is a superb instrument and the facility (including the NRAO staff) is excellent. It is heavily over-subscribed and is an icon of radio astronomy - something the U.S. should be proud of. In my view, it has 50 years ahead of it, just like the Lovell telescope in the UK which was built in 1957. Keep it going!
