Australian Antarctic Astronomy Advisory Committee (AAAAC)

Terms of Reference

  • Monitor and assess the overall progress of the PILOT project and the related programmatic and technical risk issues, and report on this on a regular basis to the AAL Board;
  • Based on the above, evaluate NCRIS-funded participation in the first year of the PILOT Detailed Design Phase and accordingly advise the AAL Board on the merits and risks of proceeding to the construction phase, using the NCRIS 'strategic' funds;
  • Consult with, and disseminate information to, the Australian astronomical and space science communities regarding all aspects of Antarctic astronomy, and in particular to foster interactions between astronomers, other scientists, engineers, and relevant policy makers;
  • Explore opportunities for Australian participation in new Antarctic astronomy projects, and bring these opportunities to the attention of relevant organisations;
  • Explore joint funding opportunities and industry partnerships in Antarctic astronomy;
  • Keep the AAL Board and the Australian astronomy and space science communities appraised of global developments regarding Antarctic astronomy; and
  • Undertake specific reviews and other activities as may be requested, from time to time, by the AAL Board or by the broader Australian Antarctic astronomy program.

Membership

  • Members are appointed for a fixed term of 12 months, with an expectation of automatic renewal for a further 12 months by mutual agreement.

Appointment

  • The members of the AAAAC will be appointed by the AAL Board in consultation with relevant stakeholders. The Committee Chair, in conjunction with the AAL Board, will review the membership of the Committee on a yearly basis.

Composition

  • Four astronomers, one of whom may be Chair: Karl Glazebrook, Tim Bedding, Mark Wardle, Charles Jenkins;
  • Two independent members, one of whom may be Chair: Brett Biddington (Chair), Roger Franzen;
  • One space science representative: Iver Cairns;
  • AAL Board representative: Martin Cole;
  • AAO Director or his/her nominee (ex-officio): Matthew Colless;
  • ATNF Director or his/her nominee (ex-officio): Brian Boyle;
  • AAD Chief Scientist (ex officio): Michael Stoddart;
  • BoM Chief Scientist (ex officio): Neville Smith;
  • Tasmanian Government Representative (ex officio): Ben Galbraith;
  • Australian PILOT Project Leader (ex-officio, non-voting): John Storey.