tech
Former Google CEO plans to singlehandedly fund a Hubble telescope replacement
“This is a very significant contribution to the astronomical community.”
TL;DR
- Eric and Wendy Schmidt are funding four new telescope projects under the Schmidt Observatory System.
- The Lazuli space telescope, a key project, aims to be a more capable successor to the Hubble Space Telescope with a larger mirror and advanced instruments.
- The Schmidts' investment is described as a significant philanthropic gift to the global astronomical community, emphasizing open data sharing.
- Other funded projects include the Argus Array (a ground-based optical telescope array), the DSA radio telescope, and LFAST (a ground-based spectroscopy instrument).
- These projects leverage recent technological advancements in computing, AI, and space launch capabilities.
- The Schmidts' approach aims to expedite the development and deployment of astronomical instruments compared to traditional government-funded projects.
- The funding represents a potential shift back towards private investment in large-scale astronomical research.