We wouldn’t see this as more than a start. The $ 8 million in funding is unlikely to come close to the telescope’s reconstruction. We’ve asked the NSF for comment on the financial pledge, but it’s safe to assume any revival would require additional help.
Nevertheless, the funds are an important step. They indicate the area’s commitment to Arecibo and its space studies despite the loss. They could also urge some in the US government to spend the additional resources needed to revive the Observatory. Don’t be surprised if 2021 is a better year for the facility, even though rebuilding will likely take much longer.
Update, 12/31/2020, 3:54 p.m. ET:
In a statement to Engadget, an NSF spokesperson said:
NSF’s process of funding and building large-scale infrastructure, including telescopes, is a proven, multi-year process assessing the needs of the scientific community, receiving input from researchers and other stakeholders, taking into account environmental and cultural impacts , and with Congress. As the 305-meter telescope of the Arecibo Observatory has only recently collapsed, NSF is unable to comment on possible future plans at this time. However, we will continue to work with Congress on this issue, including adhering to the language associated with the new omnibus spending package.
NSF emphasizes that the observatory is not closing. Research with archived data from the 305-meter telescope will continue and NSF is looking for ways to restore operations with the observatory’s other infrastructure as soon as possible, including the 12-meter telescope and LIDAR facilities. NSF will continue to clean up and secure the site of the 305-meter telescope and look forward to working with Puerto Rico to find new ways to support the scientific community and the local community.