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Astronomy, astrophysics and gravity

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Our research focus is broad and covers theoretical and observational questions in gravity and astrophysics 

First, we explore the quantum nature of gravity and how it interacts with elementary particle. We focus on several distinct approaches to quantum gravity, most importantly asymptotically safe gravity, where we have discovered new ways to confront the theoretical approach with observations.

 

Second, we explore gravity in extreme astrophysical environments, namely around black holes and neutron stars. We simulate gravitational waves that are generated by mergers of these extreme objects. Moreover, we are part of the Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration that has taken humanity’s first ever image of a black hole.

 

Third, we bring theoretical models of gravity together with astrophysics research, and explore, how images of black holes can allow us to test the theory of general relativity and its alternatives.

Related study programmes

At SDU, you can specialise in astronomy as a bachelor student. The courses include fundamental astronomy, astrophysics and fundamental cosmology and provide both theoretical lectures and observation nights. You can learn about fundamental aspects of gravity, including quantum gravity, both on bachelor and master’s level, for instance in the courses on general relativity and Introduction to quantum gravity. You can also participate in research on astrophysics and gravity as part of a project during your studies, or even write your BA and/or MA thesis in this area. You can also take an astronomy education for upper secondary school teachers (only in Danish).

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Videos & podcasts

Visual content that explains some of the research topics within astronomy, astrophysics and gravity.
Asymptotic safety seminars

The international seminar on asymptotic safety was founded in spring 2011, with the intention of bringing the asymptotic-safety community together, and providing a platform for talks on asymptotic safety in and beyond quantum gravity, as well as related topics in quantum gravity and quantum field theory.

Go to seminar webpage

Meet the researchers

Astrid Eichhorn

  • Associate professor at CP3-Origins at the Faculty of Science since 2019
  • PhD in Physics from Friedrich Schiller  University Jena in Germany
  • Main research interests: quantum gravity, dark matter and black holes, a.o.

SDU's research profile

Roman Gold

  • Assistant professor at CP3-Origins at the Faculty of Science since 2020
  • PhD in Physics from Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany
  • Main research interests: gravitational waves, Event Horizon Telescope, general relativistic magnetohydrodynamics, a.o.

SDU's research profile

Last Updated 12.07.2024