Line of research overview

Theory and Observations of the Cosmic Microwave Background

Principal Investigator: Carlo Baccigalupi

Abstract: Modern observations of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) anisotriopies target the physics of the very Early Universe (EU) as well as the Dark Cosmological Components. The B-modes of CMB polarization are able to record and bring to observation the presence of Gravitational Waves (GWs) generated during Inflation. At the same time, the interaction of CMB photons with forming cosmological structures via Gravitational Lensing (GL) as well as the Integrated Sachs-Wolfe (ISW) effect is a carrier of information concerning the late time evolution of the Universe, and in particular the physical properties of Dark Matter and Energy. The researchers at the IFPU concerning these problems range from the analysis and exploitation of data to their theoretical interpretation. The CMB projects are presently ongoing and will be operative till at least the next decade. The IFPU exploits an unique location in order to gather all interested scientists for achieving coordination between various projects, growth of collaborations, production of original investigations, and maximizing the return from the results of ongoing observations.

Status of project and perspectives: The research areas related to the exploitation of the modern CMB observations is multi-disciplinary and ranges from the science of data to the modelization, parametrization and constraint of the physics of the Early Universe and the Dark Cosmological Components. The IFPU offers an unique opportunity for scientists working at the different aspects to gather together in a single space, working on specific aspects, as well as overviewing the whole efforts, hosting dedicated meetings, scientific visits, and workshops. The activities consist of brainstormings and meetings on a weekly basis at the IFPU, spending at the institute 2 days per week, as well as regular seminars at the site. In the recent past, activities have culminated with the organization of workshops, on the exploitation of most advanced data analysis techniques (https://github.com/hpc4cmb/toast-workshop-trieste-2019), as well as science prospects from forthcoming B-mode probes (Fundamental Physics with Future CMB Probes, https://indico.sissa.it/event/42/) 

The team creates and proposes a living program of visits, dedicated and focused meetings, and workshops throughout the academic year. The activities are constantly mirrored on the IFPU site and will be set in coordination with members from the four founding institutions.