SENIOR scientists and academics are celebrating securing the long-term survival of Jodrell Bank Observatory, in Cheshire.

The country’s most famous satel-lite dish has had a hand in historic lunar voyages and proving Einstein’s complex theories, making it a national icon.

But cuts in government funding loomed early this year, placing the centre in jeopardy.

Last week, it was revealed that the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) had pledged part of the funds needed to keep the facility running in its budget. But more cash was needed to guarantee survival.

Now an agreement between STFC and Jodrell Bank’s management has secured its medium and long-term future, and the entire operating costs for the e-Merlin radio-astronomy facility based at the site have been promised at current levels for the next two years.

This is long enough to complete development of this project and further scientific project funds will be made available on completion.

Looking further into the future, STFC has also now committed to investing in the development of the next generation facility in radio astronomy – the Square Kilometre Array (SKA).

SKA is a telescope that comprises a square kilometre data collecting de-vice which will probe gases of the Universe. Scientists hope this could help mankind answer fundamental questions about its origins.

Professor Alan Gilbert, president and Vice-Chancellor of The Univers-ity of Manchester, said: “We are de-lighted the STFC has recognised the scientific importance of e-Merlin and the Square Kilometre Array and pro-vided a commitment to fund these important projects, which will guar-antee the future of Jodrell Bank.”

Professor Phil Diamond, director of Jodrell Bank, is also delighted.

Some £8m has been spent on the eMerlin project and now crucial electronic systems will be introduced this summer, meaning its network of radio-telescopes, including the Lovell telescope in Cheshire, will go live in the autumn.

Academics believe this network will help understand how stars and galaxies like our own have evolved.

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