Cheshire observatory could close if funding isn't found

The Jodrell Bank Observatory, in Cheshire, which has housed the UK's largest telescope for nearly 70 years, has lost its funding and could now close.

The observatory and its network of telescopes have been pivotal to the country's study of distant galaxies and training future astronomers. Scientists have described the decision as "heartbreaking" and "scientifically misguided".

All scientific observations at Jodrell are expected to cease on the 1 April 2028 unless alternative funding can be found.