Astronomy and Space Science

Astronomy is one of the oldest branches of science, fascinating humans from the earliest times. Using telescopes and satellites to observe the skies, as well as theoretical and simulation work, astronomers study how the Universe began and evolved to its present state, how galaxies form and why our solar system looks as it does.

Astronomers and space scientists at Universities around the UK are some of the world’s best, working on answers to these and other questions identified in our science challenges.

STFC’s Astronomy Programme

In this section you will find details of our current and future programmes, facilities and contact details for enquiries. You will also find information on applying for astronomy research grants and access to the facilities we support.

STFC's astronomy and space science programme is delivered through grant funding for research activities, and also through support of technical activities at STFC's UK Astronomy Technology Centre and RAL Space at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.

Space science

Funding opportunities

STFC provides support to researchers in various ways.  See below for details of how to apply for astronomy research grants, fellowships, studentships, telescope time and other funding opportunities.

• Astronomy observation and theory 2021
• Solar and planetary studies 2021
• Applying for Telescope Time on STFC Astronomy Facilities
• STFC fellowships 
• STFC studentships
• PPRP   - guidelines on how to apply for funding for a new large projects through the Science Board/PPRP process

Other resources

• Grants on the web - searchable database for all current STFC grants