The Eric and Wendy Schmidt Observatory System
Supports rapid, modular, and open development of astronomical observatories to accelerate global astrophysics research and enable faster scientific discovery.
Funder: Schmidt Sciences
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (Application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Funding amounts not specified; awards typically support rapid, large-scale observatory development and collaborative research projects.
Summary: Supports rapid, modular, and open development of astronomical observatories to accelerate global astrophysics research.
Description
The Eric and Wendy Schmidt Observatory System is an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming how astronomical observatories are designed, built, and operated. By dramatically shortening development cycles from decades to years, the program seeks to lower barriers for global participation in astrophysics and enable faster scientific discovery. The system is built upon principles of modular, scalable design, open data, shared scientific tools, and risk-tolerant technical innovation. It encourages global, cross-disciplinary collaboration and aims to make frontier astrophysics more accessible to researchers worldwide. Major projects include the Argus Array, Deep Synoptic Array (DSA), Large Fiber Array Spectroscopic Telescope (LFAST), and Lazuli Space Observatory.
