SFB 1601
The Cosmic Evolution of the Habitats of Massive Stars
The University of Cologne has been granted a new Collaborative Research Center (CRC) by the German Research Foundation (DFG). In addition, two existing CRCs have been extended. The new CRC 1601 is entitled “The Cosmic Evolution of the Habitats of Massive Stars”. The CRC will be funded for three years and nine month. Spokesperson is the astronomist Professor Dr Stefanie Walch-Gassner from University of Cologne’s Institute for Astrophysics. The participating researchers are studying the cosmic evolution of the habitats of massive stars – the gaseous environments in which these stars are born and with which they interact. Due to their short life span and high energy output, massive stars have significantly influenced the evolution of galaxies since the beginning of the universe.
Within CRC 1601, researchers are investigating the physical processes that determine the habitats of massive stars in different galactic environments. The new CRC combines four research branches: Laboratory astrophysics, instrument development, observations and theoretical modelling and simulations. The CRC partners have a strong profile as leading players in large international projects and have extensive experience in building and operating their own telescopes as well as developing state-of-the-art instruments in the infrared, submillimetre and radio wave range. New developments, in particular the launch of the FYST/CCAT telescope in 2024, in which the Universities of Cologne and Bonn have a 25 percent stake, will be optimally supported by CRC 1601.