Paths of Technical Change: The Canarian Institute of Astrophysics as a Case Study

Abstract

Although science policies have for long been the subject of academic concern, there are many issues that still bewilder scholars of science and technology. This paper takes the Instituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC) to probe into these issues. We have analyzed the innovation and development of two scientific instruments as a point-of-entry into the complexity of astrophysical research. This analysis has provided us with evidence: (a) to start mapping out the forces behind the technological trajectories that go from big science to instrument development; (b) to enquire into the appropriateness and potential negative side effects of the recent pressures made on public institutions to patent the results of their research. We end up underlining some policy issues brought out by our field work and with an agenda for further research.