"Urgent Plea: Mexico's Astronomers Call to Preserve Massive Telescope Amid Funding Crisis"

In a race against time, astronomers are rallying to save Mexico's prized astronomical gem, the Large Millimeter Telescope Alfonso Serrano (LMT), from financial ruin. Perched atop a dormant volcano in southern Mexico, this colossal telescope has been a beacon of discovery since its inception in 2011.

With funding set to dry up by 31 August, the scientific community is urging the Mexican government to step in and rescue the LMT. The telescope, jointly operated by Mexico and the University of Massachusetts, holds a pivotal role in unraveling the mysteries of the universe, particularly through its contribution to the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT), which captured the first-ever image of a black hole in 2019.

Despite being a crucial player in groundbreaking research, the LMT is facing an imminent shutdown due to financial uncertainties. The Mexican government had previously allocated $9 million over 3 years to support the telescope's operations, but recent restructuring of scientific funding sources has left the LMT in a precarious position.

The LMT's annual operating costs are a mere fraction of its initial construction expenses, emphasizing the impact a funding cutoff would have on scientific progress. Not only would it jeopardize the future of the telescope, but it would also put at risk the jobs of dozens of dedicated technicians and scientists who operate the facility.

To prevent this impending crisis, astronomers are calling for a sustainable funding mechanism to secure the LMT's future. More than 1300 individuals have joined the cause, urging the government to prioritize the preservation of this vital scientific asset. However, the response from Mexican officials remains uncertain, leaving the fate of the LMT hanging in the balance.

As the astronomy community anxiously waits for a resolution, the resilience and ingenuity of the LMT team shine through. Despite past challenges, there is optimism that Mexico will rise to the occasion and safeguard this remarkable telescope for generations to come.

Source: https://www.science.org/content/article/money-running-out-astronomers-urge-mexico-save-its-giant-telescope