Canadian Telescope Fills Ultraviolet Gap Post-Hubble

Canadian astronomers are urging the Canadian government to fund the development of the Cosmological Advanced Survey Telescope for Optical and UV Research (CASTOR), a new telescope with ultraviolet capabilities that could fill the gap left by the eventual retirement of the Hubble Space Telescope. The CASTOR telescope, which is ready for launch in 2029, would allow astronomers to observe the ultraviolet universe, which is invisible from Earth's surface. The Canadian government is being asked to contribute 60% of the estimated $480 million CAD cost, with international partners covering the rest. The funding decision is currently before Canada's Parliament, with a budget decision expected in the spring.