ANU Research School of Astronomy & Astrophysics
- The ANU Research School of Astronomy & Astrophysics (RSAA) is one of Australia’s leading institutions for astronomical research and education. Located at the Mount Stromlo Observatory in Canberra, the RSAA is part of the Australian National University (ANU) and plays a key role in advancing the field of astronomy and astrophysics. It is known for its cutting-edge research, world-class telescopes, and collaborations with international space agencies such as NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA).
- The Mount Stromlo Observatory, home to the RSAA, has a long history of astronomical research, dating back to 1924. Although much of the original facility was destroyed in the devastating 2003 Canberra bushfires, it has since been rebuilt with state-of-the-art laboratories, research facilities, and advanced telescopes. The Siding Spring Observatory, another ANU-operated facility in New South Wales, houses the Anglo-Australian Telescope and the SkyMapper Telescope, which have contributed to major discoveries, including the search for dark matter and exoplanets.
- The RSAA is a hub for groundbreaking research in areas such as galaxy formation, stellar evolution, black holes, dark matter, and cosmology. Scientists at the school work on major international projects, including gravitational wave detection, deep space imaging, and space debris tracking. The school also leads research in adaptive optics, which improves the clarity of images taken from ground-based telescopes, helping astronomers study the universe in greater detail.
- For students and the public, the RSAA offers astronomy courses, workshops, and outreach programs. The ANU Stargazing Nights and public lectures allow visitors to explore the night sky through high-powered telescopes while learning from expert astronomers. With its commitment to cutting-edge research, innovation, and public engagement, the ANU Research School of Astronomy & Astrophysics remains a global leader in exploring the mysteries of the universe.