SLAC topics

Particle Astrophysics & Cosmology (PAC) RSS feed

To explore the birth of the universe, star and galaxy formation and the structure of space and time, SLAC researchers help develop cutting-edge technologies for a range of sensitive experiments.

Speed of hydrogen gas in a rotating galaxy.
News Brief

In a new study, SLAC researchers suggest a small-scale solution could be the key to solving a large-scale mystery.

Black spheres travel across a grid of blue spheres.
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Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s detailed, big-picture view of our Solar System and ability to quickly detect and track moving objects will provide a gold...

A ring of yellow dots representing surrounds the earth, which projects a green beam onto the dots.
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The latest results put the strongest constraints on the expansion of the universe ever obtained with DES supernova data.

Blanco Telescope
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Margaux Lopez is helping prepare the Vera Rubin Observatory for the arrival of the largest digital camera ever built for astrophysics and cosmology.

Margaux Lopez in front of a telescope building.
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A new report outlines suggestions for federal investments needed for the next generation of transformative discoveries in particle physics and cosmology, including priority projects...

A web of dark matter, in which galaxies are forming.
News Brief

Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s fast-moving telescope and huge digital camera will illuminate the faint glow of free-floating stars within galaxy clusters, providing unprecedented insight...

A smattering of hundreds of galaxies of different shapes and sizes against a black background. Semi-opaque teal blobs surround and connect many of the galaxies.
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Three SLAC scientists explain what they do to ensure the world's largest digital camera for astronomy is ready for the big time.

A digital sensor array is visible through a large camera lens inside a white room.
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It takes a lot of meetings, travel logistics and even tracking down some parts to keep a large team collaborating on a project like...

A portrait of Regina Matter.
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The first batch of data from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument is now available for researchers to mine. Taken during the experiment’s “survey validation”...

A telescope building sits atop a mountain in twilight.
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Just because matter is visible doesn’t mean it’s easy to see.

Illustration of Earth and galaxies with icons representing telescopes.
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An astronomy festival will mark the milestone.

Visitors at KIPAC are observing the sun through telescopes and sun-spotters.
News Brief

A new study probing the structure and evolution of galaxy clusters shows good agreement with the predictions of standard cosmological models. 

A cluster of bright galaxies on a black background.