But for Australia to remain at the forefront of astronomy research and discovery, our nation’s astronomers need access to the next generation of world-leading mega telescopes, including the next generation 30m class telescopes, and 8m class telescope capabilities.

The Chair of the Australian Academy of Science’s National Committee for Astronomy, Professor Virginia Kilborn, said one way this could be achieved is through membership of the European Southern Observatory, an intergovernmental organisation of 16 member states.

The recommendation is included in the Academy’s new 10-year plan for astronomy being launched in Adelaide at the annual meeting of Australia’s astronomers a few weeks ago.

Professor Kilborn said the plan also highlights how Australia’s astronomy workforce is delivering value for the nation, from making fundamental scientific discoveries to developing technology and data science capability through to growing a high-tech workforce.