Committee forwards UNM Taos observatory funding request to finance without recommendation

Senate Bill 394, which would provide $1.5 million toward the construction of the UNM Taos Cielo Centro Observatory, was carried out of the Senate Education Committee with a “no recommendation” and referred to Finance.

Senator Gonzales introduced the request and called witnesses from UNM Taos, UNM Taos faculty and community liaisons to describe the project’s education and workforce-development aims. Proponents said the observatory would be used primarily for K–12 outreach, to contextualize math and science curricula, and to inspire students to pursue STEM careers. “There’s nothing better than astronomy to inspire and hook students of any age,” said Colin Nichols, chair of the science department at UNM Taos, in testimony about field trips and student engagement.

Witnesses described the project as shovel-ready: the university reported completed construction documents and prior GO-bond allocations and other state funds committed to the project. The presentation noted UNM Taos had spent institutional funds on planning and design and that the project is planned in phases; the $1.5 million request would complete the primary observatory and amphitheater components, with ancillary pieces to follow as funding allows. The committee discussed broader capital funding practices and whether this kind of construction should be supported from general appropriations or through the capital/bond process; members also asked about local contributions and other grant opportunities, including potential NSF partnerships.

A motion for a 'no recommendation' (which allows a bill to advance without the committee's endorsement) passed by roll call and the bill was moved to the Finance Committee for further consideration. Committee members noted the project’s expected educational reach and economic development potential but also raised concerns about capital funding priorities and the timing of state investments amid volatile revenue sources.