The Dusty Universe

Anja C Andersen, professor of Astrophysics and Planetary at the Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen




The Dusty Universe



Cosmic dust was once solely an annoyance to astronomers, as it obscures objects they wished to observe. When infrared astronomy began, the dust particles were observed to be significant and vital components of astrophysical processes. Cosmic dust particles are vital for the star and planet formation process and the late end stages of stellar evolution. Dust particles determine the spectral appearance of proto-stars as well as of evolved stars with circumstellar envelopes, and they also dominate extinction curves of galaxies. In the infrared era of astronomy cosmic dust is illuminating the previously dark parts of galaxies and have become an important proxy for understanding the evolution of the universe.



About :

Anja C. Andersen is a Professor of Astrophysics at the Niels Bohr Institute at the University of Copenhagen. She has written multiple books and works to further the publics understanding of the Natural Sciences and Technology.




The lecture takes place on 21st of February from 11.15-12.15 in the DIAS Auditorium, Fioniavej 34. Everybody is welcome and no registration is needed.