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The Science and Technology Facilities Council invites applications for its astronomy research grants. These support research in the areas of astronomy, cosmology, solar system science and certain aspects of particle astrophysics. Grant proposals may address either of the following two calls:

•astronomy observation and astronomy theory, which covers all aspects of astronomy and astrophysics beyond the solar system;

•solar studies and planetary studies, which covers theory, including modelling, simulation, and related software development, observation, experiment and new technology relevant to all aspects of solar system science.

Applicants may either apply for an institutional-focused consolidated grant or a science-focused consortium grant. University departments or similar organisational units may apply for consolidated grants. Groups of researchers in more than one university or institution with a common research programme may apply for consortium grants. Applicants requesting support for projects involving technology development must discuss with the office whether the project falls within remit. Astronomy and space science proposals at technology readiness levels 1 to 4 are eligible.

Grants are available for up to three years with the possibility of a no-cost one-year extension. Funding may cover travel to conferences workshops and meetings, computing consumables, recruitment costs, equipment, support staff and studentships.