Astrophysics Research at Liverpool John Moores University
Lead Research Organisation:
Liverpool John Moores University
Department Name: Astrophysics Research Institute
Abstract
We will continue to pursue ground-breaking astrophysical research at the forefront of knowledge through both observational work and theoretical modelling.
Under the heading of Time-Domain Astrophysics, we will study the explosions of Novae, Supernovae and Gamma-Ray Bursts. We will investigate the fundamental properties of Galactic and extragalactic novae, building on our considerable expertise in this area, and including a detailed investigation of the possibility that these objects are the progenitors of the important Type la Supernovae, which have become known as one of the primary probes of the scale and nature of the Universe. For supernovae that owe their origin to the collapse of the core of a massive star (Core-Collapse Supernovae), we will constrain their progenitors by investigating the environments in which they are found, coupled with detailed analyses of their outbursts. We will investigate the physics of Gamma-Ray Bursts - the most powerful explosions in the Universe. Combining cutting-edge theoretical predictions with novel observational experiments on the world's largest robotic telescopes, we will probe regions of extreme physics to determine the fundamental role of magnetic fields. In addition, we will use multi-frequency observations to determine the nature of the progenitors of these objects and the physics of the interaction of relativistic ejecta with the pre-outburst medium. Furthermore, we will explore new regions of the time domain being opened up in the radio and exploit our proven ability to build fast-track instrumentation to address new science questions.
In the area of stellar evolution, we will capitalise on our leading role in some of the most ambitious ground and space-based surveys to determine the ways in which the earliest phases of the formation of stars occur. This will convert the UK's spearheading of these surveys into international leadership in the scientific interpretation of the data. Our research will also build on our expertise in stellar modelling to investigate the structure of stars at the other end of their lives by comparing our models with results from satellites on stellar vibrations.
Under the heading of the formation and evolution of galaxies, we will investigate the properties of galaxies on all mass scales from the smallest to the largest. We will use new observations from the most powerful ground and space-based telescopes to study long-standing theoretical problems with the observed numbers of the smallest galaxies, and the rapid build-up of the most massive galaxies, and we will study how the evolution of galaxies is affected by their environment. We will use new instruments and theoretical modelling techniques to study in detail the manner in which gas is driven into the centres of galaxies and channelled onto the supermassive black holes that power the phenomenon of Active Galactic Nuclei, and study the important role that these objects play in the evolution of their host galaxies. Finally, we will use our results to better predict what the next generation of telescopes, such as the James Webb Space Telescope and Square Kilometre Array, will see and determine the best way for these billion-pound facilities to continue to advance our understanding of the Universe.
All of our research uses the most advanced ground-based telescopes (such as our own Liverpool Telescope), satellites and data analysis techniques to carry out observations from gamma rays to radio wavelengths. In turn, ARI staff lead many of the new generation surveys with these telescopes. The projects we propose in the above areas are technically demanding and require computer software support to aid the delivery of the science.
The structure and organisation of the ARI is designed to deliver internationally excellent research. The ARI is known worldwide for developing and exploiting outreach activities to engage the wider population in STFC science and we aim to enhance these.
Under the heading of Time-Domain Astrophysics, we will study the explosions of Novae, Supernovae and Gamma-Ray Bursts. We will investigate the fundamental properties of Galactic and extragalactic novae, building on our considerable expertise in this area, and including a detailed investigation of the possibility that these objects are the progenitors of the important Type la Supernovae, which have become known as one of the primary probes of the scale and nature of the Universe. For supernovae that owe their origin to the collapse of the core of a massive star (Core-Collapse Supernovae), we will constrain their progenitors by investigating the environments in which they are found, coupled with detailed analyses of their outbursts. We will investigate the physics of Gamma-Ray Bursts - the most powerful explosions in the Universe. Combining cutting-edge theoretical predictions with novel observational experiments on the world's largest robotic telescopes, we will probe regions of extreme physics to determine the fundamental role of magnetic fields. In addition, we will use multi-frequency observations to determine the nature of the progenitors of these objects and the physics of the interaction of relativistic ejecta with the pre-outburst medium. Furthermore, we will explore new regions of the time domain being opened up in the radio and exploit our proven ability to build fast-track instrumentation to address new science questions.
In the area of stellar evolution, we will capitalise on our leading role in some of the most ambitious ground and space-based surveys to determine the ways in which the earliest phases of the formation of stars occur. This will convert the UK's spearheading of these surveys into international leadership in the scientific interpretation of the data. Our research will also build on our expertise in stellar modelling to investigate the structure of stars at the other end of their lives by comparing our models with results from satellites on stellar vibrations.
Under the heading of the formation and evolution of galaxies, we will investigate the properties of galaxies on all mass scales from the smallest to the largest. We will use new observations from the most powerful ground and space-based telescopes to study long-standing theoretical problems with the observed numbers of the smallest galaxies, and the rapid build-up of the most massive galaxies, and we will study how the evolution of galaxies is affected by their environment. We will use new instruments and theoretical modelling techniques to study in detail the manner in which gas is driven into the centres of galaxies and channelled onto the supermassive black holes that power the phenomenon of Active Galactic Nuclei, and study the important role that these objects play in the evolution of their host galaxies. Finally, we will use our results to better predict what the next generation of telescopes, such as the James Webb Space Telescope and Square Kilometre Array, will see and determine the best way for these billion-pound facilities to continue to advance our understanding of the Universe.
All of our research uses the most advanced ground-based telescopes (such as our own Liverpool Telescope), satellites and data analysis techniques to carry out observations from gamma rays to radio wavelengths. In turn, ARI staff lead many of the new generation surveys with these telescopes. The projects we propose in the above areas are technically demanding and require computer software support to aid the delivery of the science.
The structure and organisation of the ARI is designed to deliver internationally excellent research. The ARI is known worldwide for developing and exploiting outreach activities to engage the wider population in STFC science and we aim to enhance these.
Planned Impact
The major form of impact from this grant will come from the set of web-based projects described in detail in the Case and Pathways to Impact document. These will benefit schools, amateur astronomers and the general public.
In addition there will be other more traditional forms of public engagement growing from the research. In particular we would anticipate a number of talks, panel discussions and question-and-answer sessions relating to the research. These will vary with respect to audience with schools (from primary upwards), amateur astronomy societies, lecture societies, WI groups etc. all obvious candidates. We will also showcase the research at events organised by the ARI (such as the annual Merseyside Astronomy Day) and, where appropriate, at the Spaceport visitor centre.
In all cases the benefits will be twofold. Obviously, an exposure to current research can stimulate enquiry and interest in any audience. However, a less obvious, but perhaps more important benefit is to use that stimulation to promote an appreciation of science as a whole. This is particularly important for engagement with schools where astronomy has an vital role to play in promoting science and other STEM subjects as potential careers.
In order to facilitate this, younger and less experienced researchers (especially PDRAs and PhD students) will be encouraged to present their research to a variety of audiences, with training and support provided by the experienced Outreach team within the ARI.
We will also work with non-science organisations to find ways in which the research can be used to enhance their own work. This sort of impact is difficult to predict in advance, as it is usually opportunistic, but past examples in the ARI have involved work with arts organisations and artists (including musicians, theatre companies, street theatre performers, sculptors, photographers and writers) and organisations that promote access to education (such as Aim Higher).
In addition there will be other more traditional forms of public engagement growing from the research. In particular we would anticipate a number of talks, panel discussions and question-and-answer sessions relating to the research. These will vary with respect to audience with schools (from primary upwards), amateur astronomy societies, lecture societies, WI groups etc. all obvious candidates. We will also showcase the research at events organised by the ARI (such as the annual Merseyside Astronomy Day) and, where appropriate, at the Spaceport visitor centre.
In all cases the benefits will be twofold. Obviously, an exposure to current research can stimulate enquiry and interest in any audience. However, a less obvious, but perhaps more important benefit is to use that stimulation to promote an appreciation of science as a whole. This is particularly important for engagement with schools where astronomy has an vital role to play in promoting science and other STEM subjects as potential careers.
In order to facilitate this, younger and less experienced researchers (especially PDRAs and PhD students) will be encouraged to present their research to a variety of audiences, with training and support provided by the experienced Outreach team within the ARI.
We will also work with non-science organisations to find ways in which the research can be used to enhance their own work. This sort of impact is difficult to predict in advance, as it is usually opportunistic, but past examples in the ARI have involved work with arts organisations and artists (including musicians, theatre companies, street theatre performers, sculptors, photographers and writers) and organisations that promote access to education (such as Aim Higher).
Publications
Dalessandro E
(2018)
The Unexpected Kinematics of Multiple Populations in NGC 6362: Do Binaries Play a Role?*
in The Astrophysical Journal
Dalessandro E
(2013)
The horizontal branch in the UV colour-magnitude diagrams - II. The case of M3, M13 and M79†
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Dalessandro E
(2018)
IC 4499 revised: Spectro-photometric evidence of small light-element variations
in Astronomy & Astrophysics
Dalgleish H
(2018)
Ionized gas kinematics in bipolar H ii regions
in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society
Darnley M
(2017)
No Neon, but Jets in the Remarkable Recurrent Nova M31N 2008-12a?-Hubble Space Telescope Spectroscopy of the 2015 Eruption
in The Astrophysical Journal
Darnley M
(2017)
Inflows, Outflows, and a Giant Donor in the Remarkable Recurrent Nova M31N 2008-12a?- Hubble Space Telescope Photometry of the 2015 Eruption
in The Astrophysical Journal
Darnley M
(2012)
ON THE PROGENITORS OF GALACTIC NOVAE
in The Astrophysical Journal
Darnley M
(2014)
A remarkable recurrent nova in M 31: The optical observations
in Astronomy & Astrophysics
Darnley M. J.
(2018)
Recurrent Nova M31N 2008-12a: spectroscopic confirmation of the 2018 eruption
in The Astronomer's Telegram
Darnley M. J.
(2018)
Liverpool Telescope Spectroscopy of the Nova Eruption from V392 Persei
in The Astronomer's Telegram
Description | We have examined the properties of galaxies and stars and how they change over cosmic time. These findings have been compared with the latest theoretical predictions to for a census on the evolution of structure. New instrumentation polarimeter MOPTOP is being developed for the LT and exploitation is funded in the latest Consolidated Grant (2018-2021). |
Exploitation Route | Future experiments are required to form a better understanding of the astrophysical processes involved. |
Sectors | Communities and Social Services/Policy,Education,Environment,Culture, Heritage, Museums and Collections |
Description | Findings are disseminated in astronomical literature and through public events and schools through the National Schools' Observatory. Partly as a result of this grant NSO now has 3,000 registered schools and delivered 140,000 observations to classrooms. We carry out a range of outreach activities visiting schools, astronomical societies and social groups. We also carry out special exhibitions and events at national venues including Tate Liverpool; FACT; the Science Museum London; the London Design Biennale at Somerset House. These have showcased ARI and LJMU research to a total estimated audience in excess of 50,000. Two of our Outreach staff have fEC awards to carry out impact for two funded projects on our renewed Consolidated Grant 2018-21. Under the directorship of Professor Steve Longmore, ARI has developed a major new research area connected to environmental impact, "Astro-ecology". Longmore and team are working with conservation agencies worldwide (e.g. WWF; Endangered Wildlife Trust; Wetland Wildlife trust; National Geographic; Borneo Nature Foundation; Indonesia National Parks; Chester Zoo; Knowsley Safari Park; Morecambe Bay Search and Rescue; several universities), flying infrared instrumentation developed for astronomical purposes on drones. Applications include: animal conservation in rain forests; peat fire detection in Indonesia and human rescue at sea. Starting with an internal LJMU startup award of £25k in 2016, this work has attracted more than £1m of external funding principally through two STFC/GCRF grant awards. |
First Year Of Impact | 2004 |
Sector | Education,Environment,Culture, Heritage, Museums and Collections |
Impact Types | Cultural,Societal,Economic,Policy & public services |
Description | NSO Presentation in House of Commons |
Geographic Reach | National |
Policy Influence Type | Influenced training of practitioners or researchers |
Description | Consolidated Renewal |
Amount | £1,200,000 (GBP) |
Funding ID | ST/R000484/1 |
Organisation | Science and Technologies Facilities Council (STFC) |
Sector | Public |
Country | United Kingdom |
Start | 04/2018 |
End | 03/2021 |
Title | Ringo2/3 |
Description | Development of new polarimeter for detection of early-time GRB emission polarised light UV/Visible/IR detectors |
Type Of Technology | Detection Devices |
Year Produced | 2010 |
Impact | Nature paper 2013 |
Description | ARI Engagement |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | The ARI Outreach team delivers 50 events per year in addition to School based activities. These include, astronomy and science societies and associations, public open events, theatre, street theatre etc..art exhibitions, church societies, cubs, scouts, brownies etc.. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2009,2010,2011,2012,2013,2014,2015,2016 |
Description | Exhibitions at national venues |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Special exhibitions and events at national venues including: Tate Liverpool, Foundation for Art and Creative Technology (FACT), the Science Museum, the London Design Biennale at Somerset House. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016,2017,2018,2019 |
URL | http://www.astro.ljmu.ac.uk/ |
Description | Input to Parliamentary Inquiry |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Type Of Presentation | Keynote/Invited Speaker |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
Results and Impact | Provision of evidence and acting as expert witness for House of Commons S&T Committee Inquiry into astronomy and particle physics. Recommendations in final report supporting the Liverpool Telescope and National Schools' Observatory. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2011 |
Description | NSO-Garden Chelsea |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | In 2015 the NSO exhibited a garden called Dark Matter; at the Chelsea Flower Show winning a Gold medal and Best in Class" (Fresh Gardens). The aggregate audience was estimated at 211 million. The garden has an extensive legacy value at the STFC Daresbury Laboratory and is highlighted on the front cover of the 2015 STFC Impact Report. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
URL | http://www.stfc.ac.uk/files/impact-report-2015/ |
Description | National Schools Observatory |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Schools |
Results and Impact | Enhanced interest and uptake of STEM subjects Each year the NSO delivers just over 40 different events or visits to or involving schools. This reaches a total of about 4,500 pupils per year in about 80 different schools. Increasing schools registration on NSO - more than 4000 currently |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | Pre-2006,2006,2007,2008,2009,2010,2011,2012,2013,2014,2015,2016 |
URL | http://www.schoolsobservatory.org.uk/ |
Description | National Schools' Observatory |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Schools |
Results and Impact | The NSO has 3,000 registered schools. More than 100,000 discrete observations with the LT have been returned to schools for projects within the classroom. Full evaluation of the impact of the NSO is currently underway. Two of the NSO staff team now have FeC on our renewed Consolidated Grant (2018-2021) |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2006,2007,2008,2009,2010,2011,2012,2013,2014,2015,2016,2017,2018,2019 |
URL | http://www.astro.ljmu.ac.uk/ |
Description | National Schools' Observatory in FE Colleges |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Type Of Presentation | Workshop Facilitator |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Schools |
Results and Impact | 500 FE College lecturers and their students engaged with astronomical research using the Liverpool Telescope and resources of the NSO website. Over all NSO activity (Primary, Secondary, FE) over the period: 30,000 observing requests were delivered and just under 3,000,000 educational webpages viewed. This is in addition to the engagement activity entered into eVal for the previous period. www.schoolsobservatory.org.uk |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2011,2012,2013 |
Description | National Schools' Observatory in Primary Schools |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Type Of Presentation | Workshop Facilitator |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Schools |
Results and Impact | 1000 Primary school teachers and their pupils engaged with astronomical research using the Liverpool Telescope and resources of the NSO website. Over all NSO activity (Primary, Secondary, FE) over the period: 30,000 observing requests were delivered and just under 3,000,000 educational webpages viewed. This is in addition to the engagement activity entered into eVal for the previous period. www.schoolsobservatory.org.uk |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2011,2012,2013 |
URL | http://www.schoolsobservatory.org.uk |
Description | National Schools' Observatory in Secondary Schools |
Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Type Of Presentation | Workshop Facilitator |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Schools |
Results and Impact | 2500 Secondary school teachers and their pupils engaged with astronomical research using the Liverpool Telescope and resources of the NSO website. Over all NSO activity (Primary, Secondary, FE) over the period: 30,000 observing requests were delivered and just under 3,000,000 educational webpages viewed. This is in addition to the engagement activity entered into eVal for the previous period www.schoolsobservatory.org.uk |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2011,2012,2013 |
URL | http://www.schoolsobservatory.org.uk |
Description | Press coverage relating to the Liverpool Telescope |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Type Of Presentation | Paper Presentation |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Media (as a channel to the public) |
Results and Impact | 12+ significant stories covered by the media through press releases related to the Liverpool Telescope. This is in addition to the outputs reported for the previous period through eVal. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2011,2012,2013 |
Description | School and Public Talks |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Type Of Presentation | Keynote/Invited Speaker |
Geographic Reach | National |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | 50+ public talks and 200+ schools talks based around science from the Liverpool Telescope. This is in addition to data entered through eVal for the previous period. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2011,2012,2013 |
URL | http://www.astro.ljmu.ac.uk/outreach |
Description | TV and radio coverage |
Form Of Engagement Activity | A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview |
Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
Type Of Presentation | Keynote/Invited Speaker |
Geographic Reach | International |
Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
Results and Impact | Contributions to TV and radio broadcasts featuring LIverpool Telescope science. Total 20+ in this reporting period. This is in addition to the outputs reported for the previous period through eVal. |
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2011,2012,2013 |
URL | http://www.schoolsobservatory.org.uk |