Since June 2025, Elisa Costantini, astrophysicist and senior researcher at the Netherlands Institute for Space Research (SRON), has been the new chair of the Astronomy Table. How has the recent period been and what are her plans for the Table?
Why did you become chair?
It is very important that every astronomy institute and faculty is represented, so when Sera Markhoff, the previous chair, was nearing the end of her term, I discussed it with my supervisor. I had already been a member for six years, which is two terms. Given all my gained experience and my positive experiences as a member, I was in an excellent position to become chair. Although I look forward to fulfilling my duties as chair of the Astronomy Table, I also greatly enjoyed my time as a member. Thanks to that role, I know what is happening in other disciplines and have a better overview of how the table functions in relation to all other stakeholders.
Professionally, I see the chairmanship as a great opportunity to connect with people outside my own bubble, people with different jobs and interests. There is always something to learn!
How do you see the Astronomy Table in relation to NWO?
NWO has many positive initiatives, such as funding research and various activities. Therefore, it is important that NWO and the community do not function as two separate entities. The table is a means to bridge the gap.
There is enough room for both parties to improve this relationship. The Astronomy Table is a dynamic place, but we do not always treat it as such. Take, for example, the agenda items during our meetings: there should be more room for discussion and analysis instead of handling each point chronologically. Furthermore, during my term, I want to think about the best ways to communicate with NWO, brainstorm about the most effective way to give advice on certain topics, and create more space for discussion.
What are your plans as chair?
I would like to continue making the Table visible within the astronomy community. A few years ago, the community did not even know the Table existed, let alone how it functioned. Nowadays, community members know much more and make good use of the Astronomy Table to communicate with NWO.
Where will the Astronomy Table be in three years?
In three years, the Astronomy Table will be a place where good discussions are held, with active members who want to get things done and where we have developed an effective method to communicate both with the community and with NWO. We have already taken many steps to achieve these goals. Two years ago, we established an annual townhall day where the Table, representatives of NWO, and the astronomy community are present. This gives us the opportunity to discuss important themes such as sustainability or the organization of funding.
