Artists, writers and scientists call on UK government to save Jodrell Bank Observatory

More than 100 artists, writers and scientists have signed a petition urging the UK government to restore funding for the Jodrell Bank Observatory’s network of radio telescopes after the Treasury announced cuts. Among the signatories are the band New Order, former Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield and Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, who describe the reductions as “foolish and shortsighted”. The appeal is directed at the newly appointed prime minister, Andy Burnham, with supporters emphasizing that the facility provides the “world’s clearest eyes on the sky”.

The Jodrell Bank complex, home to the Grade I‑listed Lovell Telescope, is a cornerstone of British and international astronomy. Researchers rely on its capabilities to investigate the structure of distant galaxies, the processes of star formation and the detection of planets beyond the solar system. The funding cut threatens not only ongoing scientific programmes but also the preservation of a historic instrument that has operated continuously since the 1950s.

Campaigners argue that reinstating the budget is essential to maintain the United Kingdom’s leadership in radio astronomy and to protect a cultural landmark. They have called on the prime minister to act swiftly, warning that further reductions could diminish the country’s capacity to contribute to global space research and undermine the scientific community’s ability to explore the universe.