The future European Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) promises groundbreaking discoveries, particularly in identifying Earth-like planets. To achieve this, advanced technologies like Adaptive Optics (AO) and innovative materials such as metamaterials are employed to counteract atmospheric interference. My work involves pioneering the development of state-of-the-art instruments to enhance the ELTs imaging capabilities. Through initial testing on current telescopes, we aim to directly capture the atmospheric properties of Proxima Centauri b, our nearest neighbour. The results will inform the development of ELT instrumentation in the search for extraterrestrial life.

The Universe is continuously expanding. Modern cosmology fundamentally assumes that cosmic expansion occurs uniformly in all directions. However, recent astronomical data indicate that the rate of cosmic expansion might vary per direction. If this anomaly is confirmed, it will have profound implications for modern cosmology. Galaxy clusters, the largest objects in the Universe, are excellent tracers of cosmic expansion. In this project, I will employ the latest, largest galaxy cluster catalogs compiled in X-rays to investigate potential directional variations in the Universes expansion rate with unprecedented detail. This test will yield valuable conclusions on the validity of modern cosmological theories.

Stars form in clusters within giant molecular clouds that collapse under their own gravity, leading to the formation of disks where planets develop. As these clusters disperse in the Galactic tidal field, leading to isolated planetary systems. Understanding the evolution and isolation of planetary systems becomes crucial for studying planetary formation. This complex process involves various scales and physical phenomena, including gravity and stellar evolution. To explore this, we plan to utilize the AMUSE software framework, combining gravity with magnetic-radiative hydrodynamics, stellar evolution and planet formation.

De vorming van planeten moet al vroeg plaatsvinden, minder dan een miljoen jaar nadat hun sterren ontbranden. Zulke jonge planeetstelsels liggen echter verstopt achter wolken van koud stof. Onderzoekers zullen nieuwe metingen van de James Webb Space Telescope gebruiken om te ontdekken wanneer, waar en hoe planeetvorming begint. Ze zullen ook de samenstelling onthullen van de planeten die momenteel gevormd worden in een steekproef van jonge stelsels. Deze resultaten zullen helpen te begrijpen waarom we in het universum zoveel verschillende soorten exoplaneten zien.

We are creating an interactive artwork that brings complex scientific ideas, like the birth of the universe and the origins of life, into a relatable and engaging experience. The artwork will show how both the universe and life on Earth emerged under very specific and fragile conditions, highlighting the uniqueness of life. Through this collaboration between scientists and artists, we aim to inspire conversations about humanity’s place in the cosmos and the importance of protecting the delicate balance that sustains life on our planet. This experience will be featured in venues like planetariums and international exhibitions.