canary islands invests 6 million astrophysics institute

Canary Islands invests over €6 million in astrophysics institute

Funding boost for Canary Islands astrophysics research

The Canary Islands Ministry of Universities, Science, Innovation and Culture has approved more than €6 million in funding for the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) for 2026. The investment will support the institute’s research activities and strengthen its infrastructure and technological capabilities. The funding is being channelled through the Canary Islands Agency for Research, Innovation and the Information Society (ACIISI).

The regional government has authorised a contribution of €5,350,000 for the institute’s ordinary running costs and a further €660,000 for investments in various strategic areas, according to a statement from the ministry.

Minister highlights ‘investment effort’ in science and innovation

Migdalia Machín, the Minister for Universities, Science, Innovation and Culture, highlighted the Canary Islands government’s “investment effort” in science and innovation, describing these as “strategic” areas for the development of the islands. “In a context marked by the extension of the General State Budgets, we believe it is particularly important to maintain support for leading institutions such as the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias,” Machín warned.

Supporting research and modernising infrastructure

The Canary Islands government expects these resources to support the IAC’s scientific work — described as “one of the greatest scientific assets” in the islands — to encourage the development of new projects and strengthen the capacity of its infrastructure. The investment allocation will allow progress in key areas for the institute’s activity, including general services, scientific instrumentation, the observatories, computer systems and other research support areas, facilitating the modernisation of its infrastructure and the strengthening of its technical capabilities.

A world-leading centre for astronomical research

The Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias is one of Europe’s leading astronomical research centres and a global reference in the study of the universe. Comprising the General State Administration, the Canary Islands government, the University of La Laguna and the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), it manages the Teide and Roque de los Muchachos observatories, recognised among the best locations in the world for astronomical observation.

From these scientific facilities, the IAC leads and participates in global-scale projects and each year welcomes researchers from numerous countries. Its work places the islands at the forefront of knowledge and generates a significant driving effect on specialist training, technological development and attracting investment linked to the sector.

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