Updated: listen to the MP3 of this session.

We’re about half an hour away from the ‘town meeting’ that forms the one chance in the year for the whole of the UK astronomical community to ‘discuss’ issues and progress in our field. I put ‘discuss’ in inverted comments deliberately, because in such a large group (I’m sitting in the overflow lecture theatre as I type as there’s already no room in the main one) there’s little change for proper discussion. This event is attracting more attention, coming as it does in the wake of some very nasty cuts for UK astronomy, totaling at least £80 million. I’m going to try and give as full a blog as possible, primarily for those who are interested but who can’t be here. There have already been three months or so of discussion, so if you need a recap I thoroughly recommend Paul Crowther’s excellent page.

Below the jump, live reportage from the back row (where all the trouble makers traditionally sit!).

Updates : My headlines : e-MERLIN (and therefore Jodrell) safe, Keith Mason claims Gemini Board to blame for ‘confusion’ over the intention to withdraw, RAS accepts invitation to inspect detailed financial data. (more…)