blue-sky research

blue-sky research

Research that is done without a particular end or application in mind. We don't have time for blue-sky research right now—we need to focus on finishing and releasing this app.
See also: research
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

blue-sky research

research that is not directed towards any immediate or definite commercial goal.
1997 New Scientist Bell Labs and IBM are well known for blue-sky research. They have people who are paid just to sit around and think—not about products.
See also: research
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • research
  • experiment in
  • experiment in (something)
  • above the curve
  • curve
  • began
  • begin by (doing something)
  • begin by doing
  • get the OK
  • give somebody/get the OK/okay
References in periodicals archive
Most of the quantum physics field remains blue-sky research, but the nanoelectronic materials that are being developed leverage that and are ready for extreme-environment testing and application."
"It is impossible to estimate a percentage return on blue-sky research, and it is delusional even to try."
It is important to note that in this context the level of technology available to firms in a country needs to be distinguished from the country's ability to conduct blue-sky research and develop new technologies for innovation that expand the frontiers of knowledge.
"I hope this recognition of fundamental science will help raise awareness of the value of blue-sky research."
I hope this recognition of fundamental science will help raise awareness of the value of blue-sky research." The Higgs-Englert award recognises the "theoretical discovery of a mechanism that contributes to our understanding of the origin of mass of subatomic particles".
In a statement issued by the University of Edinburgh, where he retired as a professor, the famously shy, 84-year-old Higgs said he hoped the prize would help people recognize ''the value of blue-sky research.''
"I hope this recognition of fundamental science will help raise awareness of the value of blue-sky research," he said in a statement via the University of Edinburgh where he works.
Washington, Oct 24 (ANI): The military's blue-sky research arm, Darpa, is working to launch a major push that'd revolutionize robotic capabilities and put bots pretty much everywhere, from hospitals to dude ranches to "explosive atmospheres."
"Basic blue-sky research is primarily funded by Government in most countries.
Author Walter De Brouwer is a Belgian collateral thinker into technologies of the future best known for founding the blue-sky research company Starlab.
Tax director Paul Edwards said: "There is common misconception that R&D tax relief is only for high-flying, blue-sky research companies."
Instead of "blue-sky research, the emphasis has largely shifted toward activities yielding more immediate returns.
The value of blue-sky research and its application in holography was illustrated by two independent but nonetheless linked papers.
Employees of Starlab, a private, blue-sky research laboratory with campuses in Brussels and Barcelona do just that.