Mt Stromlo still an icon despite fire devastation

Mount Stromlo was, is and will continue to be an icon of scientific research and education, ANU Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Chubb has said in the wake of the recent Canberra bushfires, which destroyed the historic observatory.

"Mount Stromlo is an icon for national and international research in astronomy and astrophysics; for Australian science in general; and for the wider community, particularly to the tens of thousands of school students who have toured the site each year," Prof. Chubb said.

"But Stromlo is also an important workplace to 100 staff, 20 graduate students and other businesses.

"Many of our Mount Stromlo staff have been re-connected to the ANU phone and computer system. A Mount Stromlo general enquiries line is helping connect our staff to the world and we are progressively updating the Mount Stromlo Observatory website, which is back online.

"We cannot underestimate the enormous damage wrought by the fires to staff and their work, to research and to the creation of specialised astronomy equipment at Stromlo - but many research projects are still underway and student programs will continue this year."

Prof. Chubb said the huge national and international response to the fires which destroyed much of Mount Stromlo was a testament to the importance of the observatory to many people and also to the excellence achieved by staff at the site over the past seven decades.

The Mount Stromlo Redevelopment Fund has received hundreds of donations and enquiries from around the world. "We are fully aware of the importance of Mount Stromlo to so many people," Prof. Chubb said.

"First and foremost, the site will be re-developed to enable our Research School to maintain its record of excellence in research and education. Much consideration will also be given to the community and international significance of the site, as detailed plans are prepared."

Those with enquiries or who wish to contribute to the redevelopment of the site can ring the following numbers:

Mount Stromlo general enquiries line - (02) 6125 0230

Mount Stromlo Observatory Redevelopment and Student Bushfire Fund - (02) 6125 2229

For further information, please visit The Mount Stromlo Observatory Website