DATE: Tue, 1 Dec 2009 17:28:13 +1100
SUBJECT: CSIRO Astronomy and Space Science formed


CSIRO Astronomy and Space Science formed

December 1, 2009 marks the formal creation of the CSIRO Astronomy and  
Space Science (CASS) Business Unit.

This new Business Unit brings together CSIRO's radio astronomy  
capabilities (the Australia Telescope National Facility) and other  
space science activities (notably the operation of the Canberra Deep  
Space Communications Complex), as well as CSIRO Space Sciences and  
Technology; and the Boeing Advisor.

The enlarged unit will encompass radio astronomy, space science  
coordination, advanced aerospace business development, and national /  
international facilities management, with the operation of the  
Canberra Deep Space Communication Complex to be maintained as a  
separate entity. The creation of CASS is consistent with CSIRO’s  
strategy of consolidation of its structural units to achieve  
appropriate scale and also mirrors the increasing alignment of  
astronomy and space science in Australia.

Currently a process is taking place to recruit the person who will  
lead the ATNF and CASS in the role of ‘Chief of CSIRO Astronomy and  
Space Science’. The Chief of CASS will be responsible for both radio  
astronomy activities and space science, and will report to the Group  
Executive for Information Sciences. The role will be filled in an  
acting capacity by Dr Lewis Ball (current ATNF Acting Director), until  
the appointment process is completed. Dr Miriam Baltuck will continue  
in the role of CDSCC and NASA Operations Director, and will report to  
the Chief of CASS.



Lewis Ball
Acting Chief of CSIRO Astronomy and Space Science