SJR117 Summary

• Recognizes the National Solar Observatory as the primary provider of ground-based solar facilities in the United States and urges its relocation to the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

• Notes the National Solar Observatory receives $20 million annually in federal funding from the National Science Foundation and will relocate its operational headquarters in 2014.

• Identifies the University of Alabama in Huntsville as one of only two finalist campuses (along with University of Colorado in Boulder) to host the National Solar Observatory headquarters.

• Highlights anticipated benefits including relocation of 61 highly specialized professionals to Alabama, improved research infrastructure for universities and K-12 schools, and enhanced workforce development.

• Commits the Alabama Legislature to working with the Governor and university to enhance and expand solar physics instruction and research in the state.