ESO and the EU
ESO and the EU
ESO is the foremost organisation for ground-based astronomy in Europe. Since its establishment in 1962 it has become the main developer and operator of the largest research infrastructure projects in astronomy but also, in line with the Convention, played a major role in fostering and organising European co-operation in astronomy in general. ESO is thus well prepared to make an important contribution towards the creation of the European Research Area, an initiative of the European Union to bolster European R&D and to support Europe's efforts to realize the so-called Lisbon-goals. ESO's interaction with the European Union comprise:
direct actions, conducted through the Framework Programmes;
participation in EU-funded networks, such as OPTICON and ASTRONET;
activities carried out in the frame of the EIROforum partnership.
While some activities are related to R&D and often linked to specific ESO projects, other activities concern public outreach and education. ESO is also a participant in the on-going science policy discussions at the European level regarding the further development of the European Research Area.