Spain offers substantial funding for Thirty Meter Telescope

The Spanish government seeks to rescue the controversial Thirty Meter Telescope project.

Spain proposes 400 million euros to support Thirty Meter Telescope

On July 23, Spanish Minister of Science, Innovation and Universities Diana Morant announced that Spain will offer up to 400 million euros to save the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT), which faces potential cancellation due to budget cuts in the U.S. The telescope was intended for Hawaii's Mauna Kea, but the Trump administration is seeking to eliminate funding for it in the upcoming fiscal year. In response, Spain hopes to relocate the TMT to La Palma in the Canary Islands, where it could contribute to scientific advancements and boost local economies.

Spain's significant financial commitment highlights a growing trend of international investment in scientific infrastructure, especially at a time when U.S. funding appears uncertain. By offering a home for the TMT, Spain not only positions itself as a leader in astronomy but also seeks to mitigate criticisms regarding the cancelation's impact on local communities in Hawaii. This proposal could alter the scientific landscape significantly, inviting debate about prioritizing investments in science amid political and budgetary challenges.

Highlights

The outcome of this initiative may reshape international collaborations in astronomy.