The internationally recognized nonprofit organization Cenca Bridge has won $1.5 million, to be received over 5 years, from the Simons Foundation to support and expand their internships, mentorships and career development opportunities. The U.S. National Science Foundation National Radio Astronomy Observatory has provided administrative and leadership support in these efforts.
Recent News
NSF NRAO Achieves First Successful Observations with New NSF VLBA Digital Architecture
The new NSF VLBA New Digital Architecture (VNDA) produced its first fringes and subsequent images in January 2025, demonstrating the successful implementation of next-generation technology that will enhance the NSF VLBA’s scientific capabilities for years to come.
Image Release: the ngVLA Prototype Handover Ceremony
A landmark event for astronomy took place on April 25, 2025, as mtex antenna technology GmbH officially handed over the prototype antenna for the proposed Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA) to the U.S.
International Astronomical Union (IAU) General Assembly
Every year, astronomers from all around the globe gather for a couple of weeks at the IAU General Assembly to discuss their discoveries and observations, and to exchange ideas and challenges facing astronomy. This year the assembly is taking place in Honolulu, Hawaii. I had the privilege to give opening remarks this past Tuesday. As I said in my remarks, “it is a great honor to represent the Obama Administration at this historic event.”
NSF is one of the world’s leading institutions in astronomy. For decades, NSF-funded researchers have been exploring the most intriguing mysteries of the heavens. We hope to continue doing so!
Great catching up with the National Solar Observatory (NSO) and NSF solar astronomy program officer Dave Boboltz. One of NSO’s major projects is the NSF-funded Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope on Haleakala, Hawaii. This telescope will provide new insights into solar phenomena, including solar storms. Photo credit: NSF
With the recent announcement about Breakthrough Listen, I enjoyed talking with National Radio Astronomy Observatory’s Tony Beasley about how NSF-funded radio astronomy will play a key role. Photo credit: NSF
The Large Synoptic Survey Telescope in Chile has the world’s largest digital camera. Photo credit: NSF
NSF booth at the assembly. I’m with Patricia Knezek, NSF deputy division director for the Division of Astronomical Sciences. Photo credit: NSF
Follow and engage in the online conversation using #IAU2015 and #NSFastronomy.
Recent News
Lighting the Way: Cenca Bridge Wins Simons Foundation Funding for Expanding Astronomy Opportunities
The internationally recognized nonprofit organization Cenca Bridge has won $1.5 million, to be received over 5 years, from the Simons Foundation to support and expand their internships, mentorships and career development opportunities. The U.S. National Science Foundation National Radio Astronomy Observatory has provided administrative and leadership support in these efforts.
NSF NRAO Achieves First Successful Observations with New NSF VLBA Digital Architecture
The new NSF VLBA New Digital Architecture (VNDA) produced its first fringes and subsequent images in January 2025, demonstrating the successful implementation of next-generation technology that will enhance the NSF VLBA’s scientific capabilities for years to come.
Image Release: the ngVLA Prototype Handover Ceremony
A landmark event for astronomy took place on April 25, 2025, as mtex antenna technology GmbH officially handed over the prototype antenna for the proposed Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA) to the U.S.