Dark Energy and Matter with Large Scale Structure Observations

Principal Investigator: Carlo Baccigalupi

Area:

  • Astroparticle Physics
  • Early Universe
  • Structures in the Universe and Emergent Phenomena
  • Theory and Phenomenology of Gravity

Abstract: The web represented by the Large Scale Structure (LSS) in the Universe is the most important front for understanding Dark Energy and Matter through modern cosmological observations. Existing projects, such as the Euclid satellite and the Large Scale Structure Telescope (LSST), are currently in preparation and will be operational for the entire next decade at least. Members of the present proposal have responsibility roles in the preparatory work for these efforts and the subsequent exploitation of the data. We propose to implement this line of research at the IFPU, exploiting the single location to gather all interested scientists in order to achieve 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 on LSS represents a cross over for modern astrophysics and cosmology. The knowledge of Stellar Physics, Galaxy Formation and evolution, and their interplay with the Dark Matter and the Dark Energy are aspects which need to be connected and coordinated in order to maximize their impact. 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 team of proposers will host brainstormings and meetings on a weely basis at the IFPU, spending at the institute 2 days per week, as well as organizing regular seminars at the site. Moreover, the team will create and propose a living program of visits, dedicated and focussed meetings, and workshops throughout the academic year. We plan to make a gross planning of activities at the beginning of each academic year, but to refine the program on a montly or weekly basis. The activities will be constantly mirrored on the IFPU site and will be set in coordination with members from the four founding institutions.