Key Challenges for AAS Journals in the Next Decade

TL;DR

The paper discusses the future challenges faced by AAS Journals, especially regarding funding models like page charges amid the shift towards open access, and calls for strategic solutions to ensure sustainable publishing.

Contribution

It highlights the need for alternative funding models for AAS Journals and recommends forming a task force to develop sustainable solutions.

Findings

Current page charge model poses challenges for researchers.

Open access increases financial pressures on authors.

A task force is recommended to address funding issues.

Abstract

The American Astronomical Society (AAS) Journals are a vital asset of our professional society. With the push towards open access, page charges are a viable and sustainable option for continuing to effectively fund and publish the AAS Journals. However, the existing page charge model, which requires individual authors to pay page charges out of their grants or even out of pocket, is already challenging to some researchers and could be exacerbated in the Open Access (OA) era if charges increase. A discussion of alternative models for funding page charges and publishing costs should be part of the Astro2020 decadal survey if we wish to continue supporting the sustainable and accessible publication of US research in AAS journals in the rapidly-shifting publication landscape. The AAS Publications Committee recommends that the National Academy of Sciences form a task force to develop solutions and recommendations with respect to the urgent concerns and considerations highlighted in this White Paper.