Chilbolton Observatory

Chilbolton Observatory has operating since 1967. It performs atmospheric analysis, air quality monitoring and contributes to satellite tracking as part of the National Space Operations Centre

Chilbolton Parish Council has alerted TVBC to its concerns, shared with Chilbolton Observatory, over the effect of the planned 75-home development.

At the last Parish Council meeting there was a sense of puzzlement, amongst some Councillors, over the Observatory’s objection to the 75-home planning application.

Here we explain the background to that objection.

The Science and Technology Facilities Council, which runs the Observatory, has sent a more detailed objection to James Painter’s proposed 75-home development. In it they explain the work done at the Observatory, including for the National Space Operations Centre.

They have also assessed the field Northeast of Drove Road, and sensationally have determined that the entire development site “will materially impact the Observatory operations”.