Update on UKIRT Ownership

 

On 2nd October, I issued an Announcement of Opportunity for entities interested in participating in UKIRT beyond 30th September 2013. The Announcement solicited Expressions of Interest, with a deadline of 30th November 2012.

I am pleased to report that twelve Expressions of Interest were received, which is a remarkable outcome for an unprecedented process. We are now working through them, and as a priority will be engaging directly with those who have offered to take over the ownership of the observatory.

The objective is to reach clarity by 31st March 2013 on whether we have a viable route for the transfer of UKIRT to a new owner. Further details will be posted here as and when they become available.

Professor Gary Davis
Director JAC
14th December 2012