National Committee for Astronomy
The committee covers all research areas and methods in astronomy and astrophysics, including instrumentation, education, outreach, and industry applications, and plays a key role in shaping the strategic direction and long-term planning for Australian astronomy.
The committee covers all research areas and methods in astronomy and astrophysics, including instrumentation, education, outreach, and industry applications, and plays a key role in shaping the strategic direction and long-term planning for Australian astronomy.
The National Committee for Astronomy aims to:
- provide strategic evidence-based advice on astronomical science to the Academy and other bodies as required
- support scientific literacy and excellence in astronomical science by engaging with researchers, professionals and relevant national organisations
- liaise with relevant international bodies, ensuring Australian involvement in international activities
- promote interdisciplinary collaboration and take a multi-disciplinary approach in providing advice to the Academy
- develop decadal plans and mid-term reviews for Australian astronomy
Reports and activities
- Decadal plan for Australian astronomy 2026–2035 , July 2025
- Submission - 2021 National Research Infrastructure Roadmap Exposure Draft, December 2021
- Mid-term Review of the decadal plan for Australian astronomy (2016-2025), July 2020
- Decadal plan for Australian astronomy (2016-2025), July 2015
- Mid-term review of the decadal plan for Australian astronomy (2006-2015) , November 2015
- Decadal plan for Australian astronomy (2006-2015), 2015
Related groups and organisations
Members
Chair
- Professor Sarah Brough, 2026–2029
Deputy Chair
- To be filled
Ordinary Members
- Dr Kirsten Banks, 2026–2028
- Professor Karl Glazebrook FAA, 2025–2028
- Ms Melissa Ness, 2025–2028
- Professor Daniel Price, 2026–2028
- Professor Eric Thrane, 2026–2029
- Associate Professor Michele Trenti, 2024–2026
- Dr Tayyaba Zafar, 2024–2026
Observers
- Professor Virginia Kilborn, Observer (past chair), 2026–2026
- Ms Natalie Weddell, Observer for DISER SKA and Astronomy branch rep – SKA/ESO, 2025–2028
Ex-officio Members
- Dr Douglas Bock, ex-officio representing CSIRO Australia Telescope National Facility, 2020–
- Professor Richard McDermid, ex-officio representing Astronomical Society of Australia, 2025–2027
- Dr Sarah Pearce, ex-officio representing SKA Observatory, 2022–
- Professor Cathryn Trott, ex-officio representing Astronomy Australia Limited, 2025–2027
- Professor Stuart Wyithe, ex-officio representing Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics, 2023–