SKA Board Postpones site selection decision, hints at compromise solution

The SKA Organisation met today as expected to discuss the site selection for the SKA facility.

In a media release posted here, the organisation noted:

"The Members wished to move ahead with the site selection process, and recognised that it is desirable to maintain an inclusive approach to SKA. They noted that it is important to maximise the value from the investments made by both candidate host regions. They therefore agreed to set up a small scientific working group to explore possible implementation options that would achieve this. This working group will report back to the Members at a meeting in mid-May; its report will provide additional information to facilitate the site decision for SKA. 


The Board of the SKA Organisation met on 4 April, following the Members meeting, and discussed progress of the project. The Board approved an application for Associate Membership in the SKA Organisation from India (represented by the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics)."

By suggesting that 'it is important to maximise the value from the investments made by both candidate host regions', rumours will continue that a compromise solution may be under examination. Such a decision might be politically a win-win outcome, but may not be the best technical solution for the SKA.

Perhaps a shame that a decision couldn't be made today, but at least Australia is still in the hunt.