Research in Astronomy and Astrophysics in Canada
Research opportunities for students studying Astronomy and Astrophysics.
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Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Areas and Disciplines | |
One area that has receieved a lot of attention lately is the hunt for, and discovery of, extrasolar planets. Researchers are using various techniques to infer the presence of planets orbiting various stars. As well, a new technique called interferometry is being used. This uses a network of telescopes working cooperatively to resolve images. It is hoped these could be developed to the point where researchers can observe extrasolar planets with telescopes directly, instead of indirectly detecting them from their gravitational signature.
There is also research in designing better telescopes. Rather than traditional glass and mirrors, scientists are developing liquid mirror telescopes, which use rotating mercury to create a mirror. The advantage to this is the ability to create larger mirrors that will not warp due to the extreme heavy weight of traditional mirrors. Space-based telescopes are also being developed and refined, and launched into space to orbit at various places in the solar system. Researchers are also involved in the design, construction, and operation of a number of ground- and balloon-based submillimetre and millimetre telescopes designed for studying cosmology.
Cosmologists are trying to understand how galaxies emerged in the post-Big Bang universe. Recent research is challenging the notion that the structure, and evolution, of spiral galaxies is solely dependent on the rate at which the stars in the galactic disks ignite and die.
Astronomers are working with various other scientists to determine whether life exists on other planets. This includes studies of Mars, Europa, and Earth-based studies of organisms living in extreme environments (eg. in Antarctica, near hydrothermal vents, in deep mines, etc). As well, they are working with observational astronomers to attempt to determine if extrasolar planets have atmospheres conducive to life, such as looking for oxygen signatures produced by microbe or plant life.
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Study and Work in Astronomy and Astrophysics in Canada
Study Astronomy and Astrophysics in Canada
What is Astronomy and Astrophysics? Discover similiar and related programs and universities in Canada offering Astronomy and Astrophysics degrees.
Astronomy and Astrophysics Admission Requirements
The prerequisites required to become accepted to an undergraduate program in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Graduate Astronomy and Astrophysics Admission Requirements
The prerequisites required to become accepted to a graduate and/or postgraduate PhD program in Astronomy and Astrophysics.
What Astronomy and Astrophysics Students Learn
Topics, subjects and concepts that are covered and overall approach or focus taken for studying Astronomy and Astrophysics.
Career and Employment Opportunities in Astronomy and Astrophysics
Professions, occupations and careers available to graduates in Astronomy and Astrophysics and links to relevant employment resources.
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