The LUX addresses a wide range of topics in astrophysics, focusing on the study of extreme phenomena and processes on (extra)galactic scales. All methodologies of modern astrophysics are employed : theory, simulations, observations, instrumentation, and laboratory astrophysics. The laboratory’s hundred members are distributed across three sites : the Meudon and Paris campuses of the Paris Observatory and the Jussieu campus of Sorbonne University. The unit’s three supervising bodies are the Paris Observatory, CNRS, and Sorbonne University. LUX is organized around three scientific teams and one instrumental team.
The Cosmology and Galaxies team focuses on the formation and evolution of galaxies, as well as the influence of dark matter and dark energy on the evolution of the Universe. These studies are conducted using intensive numerical simulations, analytical models, and observations with the major instruments of the scientific community. The team participates in projects such as ALMA, CTA, IRAM, Euclid, JWST, SKA, VLT/MOONS, and ELT/MOSAIC.
The Relativistic Astrophysics team combines observation, theory, modeling, and simulation to study compact objects (neutron stars, black holes) and gravitational theories (general relativity and alternatives). It models extreme phenomena (jets, gamma-ray bursts, gravitational waves) and analyzes data from state-of-the-art instruments (SVOM, HESS, LIGO-Virgo) while contributing to the development of future instruments (CTA, LISA). This connection between theory, data, and simulation enables a deeper understanding of the Universe’s extreme processes.
The Interstellar Medium and Plasmas team studies the dynamics and chemistry of astrophysical fluids and plasmas, as well as molecular and atomic dynamics, with applications to star formation and galaxy evolution. Research activities leverage observations from major telescopes in the field (IRAM, ALMA, ESO, CFHT, JWST), theoretical calculations, numerical simulations, advanced data analysis, and laboratory experiments such as UV spectroscopy and high-power lasers (LULI2000, Apollon, Gekko XII, Omega, Vulcan).
The Superconducting Detectors and Instrumentation team is dedicated to research and development of instrumentation, working on next-generation ultra-sensitive detectors. The group employs various 2D and 3D electromagnetic design software and operates a microfabrication cleanroom dedicated to superconducting devices, along with a cryogenic characterization laboratory.
