Kevin Marvel (American Astronomical Society)

US Science Policy: How US Astronomy is Impacted by Congress and the White House - Kevin Marvel Colloquium

ATNF Marsfield Lecture Theatre

Abstract

Political decisions made by both the US Congress and the President can
have negative impacts on science, both directly and indirectly. By
knowing and understanding the process of policy development,
interacting with politicians frequently and crafting our message
carefully, Astronomers can help minimize any harm caused by political
decisions. I will present a brief summary of the US funding process,
describe the current situation in the FY 2003 budget process and
describe some actions that the American Astronomical Society regularly
takes to maintain a presence in the policy arena. I will also
describe an opportunity for Australian astronomers to have the same
kind of impact.