Project Details
Projekt
EXC 3037: Our Dynamic Universe
Subject Area
Astrophysics and Astronomy
Term
since 2026
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 533607693
The proposed Cluster of Excellence "Our Dynamic Universe" (Dynaverse) will deliver a breakthrough in our physical understanding by addressing three core Astrophysical Research Challenges (ARCs). One of the grand problems in Astrophysics is to reconstruct gradual, epoch-spanning processes like galaxy evolution from observational snapshots into an explanatory "movie of the Universe" (time-lapse astronomy: ARC1). We determine how rapid, transient key events like supernova explosions shape these long-term processes (slow-motion astronomy: ARC2). We elucidate the pivotal turning points that gave structures and light to the expanding nascent Universe (cosmic twists: ARC3). Dynaverse will pioneer new technologies to explore, quantify, and systematically develop the connections between physical processes acting on all time scales. The Bonn-Cologne area is a world-class hub for astrophysics. It builds on a holistic approach with four complementary Pillars of expertise. P1: developing state-of-the-art detectors and instruments for international telescopes; P2: leading numerous large-scale observational programmes based on open and guaranteed observing time; P3: operating top-tier laboratories for astrophysics; and P4: simulating the evolution of planets, stars, and galaxies on high-performance computers. State-of-the-art facilities, to many of which our team has prime access as a major partner, offer groundbreaking opportunities. These include upcoming radio telescopes delivering up to zettabytes of data per year, complementary multi-wavelength facilities, and the first European Exascale computer at FZJ. Optimally exploiting the novel opportunities in the transformative era of Big-Data-Astrophysics promises breakthroughs. To succeed, overcoming the extreme challenges of the unprecedented big and heterogeneous data is crucial. In this new era, the astrophysical community needs innovative methods for discoveries. Dynaverse addresses this by combining experts in astrophysics, computer science, and mathematics to establish a fifth Pillar P5: Astroinformatics. Through P5 we will leverage AI and machine learning to develop new methods for astrophysics. All our data and insights will be publicly accessible in the Shared Universe Engine (SUE), a smart, open-source workflow and processing hub. The SUE will be a machinery of discovery and a collaborative workspace for the Dynaverse team and the community. Training the next generation of researchers and students in these new technologies and methods is an essential part of Dynaverse to harvest the full scientific potential. The training of teachers and pupils is a fundamental concern. Thus, the SUE will be designed as a versatile platform including education, training, and public outreach modes.
DFG Programme
Clusters of Excellence (ExStra)
Applicant Institution
Universität zu Köln
Co-Applicant Institution
Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn
Participating Institution
Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR); Forschungszentrum Jülich; Heidelberger Institut für Theoretische Studien (HITS); Max-Planck-Institut für Radioastronomie
Participating Researchers
Professor Dr.-Ing. Jochem Baselmans; Professor Dr. Frank Bigiel; Professor Dr. Michael Felderer; Professorin Dr. Lucie Flek; Professor Gary Fuller, Ph.D.; Professor Dr.-Ing. Gregor Gassner; Professor Dr. Michael Kramer; Professor Dr. Lucas Labadie; Dr.-Ing. Andreas Lintermann; Professorin Dr. Zorah Lähner; Professorin Dr. Andrina Nicola; Professorin Dr. Susanne Pfalzner; Dr. Kai Lars Polsterer; Professor Dr. Jonathan Pritchard, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Thomas H. Reiprich; Professor Dr. Dominik Riechers; Professorin Dr. Amelie Saintonge; Professor Peter Schilke, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Stephan Schlemmer; Jennifer Schober, Ph.D.; Laura Spitler, Ph.D.; Professorin Dr. Serena Viti; Professor Dr.-Ing. Stefan Wesner
