The Institute of Astronomy at the University of Zielona Góra conducts comprehensive research in the fields of astrophysics, observational astronomy, and space technologies. Its research activities encompass a wide range of topics, from pulsar and neutron star astrophysics to celestial mechanics and the analysis of material degradation in space.
- Pulsar astrophysics: We focus on understanding radio emission processes, analyzing both individual and average pulsations. Theoretical aspects related to pulsar magnetospheres, such as the phenomenon of subpulse drifting, are also modeled. Cutting-edge radio telescopes, such as MeerKAT, LOFAR, uGMRT, and Effelsberg, are used in this research.
- High-energy astrophysics: Research includes the analysis of active galactic nuclei, including blazars, which are among the most energetic and variable sources in the universe. We apply machine learning techniques and advanced multi-wavelength data analyses to better understand the optical and gamma variability of these objects.
- Brown dwarfs and massive exoplanets: In these studies, we focus on the least massive stars and substellar objects, using direct imaging techniques and optical and infrared spectroscopy to determine their physical parameters.
- Radio astronomy: Research focuses on analyzing pulsar signals in the ionized interstellar medium, studying phenomena such as scintillation and scattering. These projects allow for a better understanding of the structure and turbulent properties of the interstellar medium, which is crucial for the development of modern space communication technologies.
- Space technologies: We analyze the impact of cosmic radiation on materials and satellite systems. This research includes radiation tests, studying the interaction of radiation with matter, and material degradation in space conditions, which is especially important in the context of interplanetary space.
- Celestial mechanics: Research focuses on the rotational dynamics of natural and artificial bodies, as well as the analysis of the dynamics of extrasolar planetary systems. Using the Hamiltonian formalism, we study the stability and integrability of differential equations.
- Cosmic plasma physics: This research involves the analysis of pulsar magnetospheres and wave processes in relativistic plasma, using both theoretical approaches and numerical modeling with Monte Carlo methods.
The Institute actively participates in the development of observational technologies and the automation of data analysis processes. Through collaborations with international research centers, the Institute utilizes data from leading telescopes, such as JWST, VLT, MeerKAT, and LOFAR, enabling advanced research at the highest global level.
