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Current Research Programmes:
The central research theme of the group is the study of Interstellar Medium (ISM) in relation to Star Formation in our Galaxy and nearby galaxies. The research activities at TIFR are currently executed using TIFR's own, National as well as International facilities.- Far Infrared Studies:
Using the TIFR's indigenously developed 100 cm balloon born FIR telescope to carry out high angular resolution (diffraction limited) mapping of Galactic Star Forming regions (H II regions, molecular clouds, outflow sources, etc). A multi-element photometer is used at the telescope's focal plane for simultaneously mapping in two FIR bands (150, 210 micron). More recently, a scanning Fabry Perot Spectrometer (R ~ 1700) is used to image in the astrophysically important [C II] line at 158 micron (and its neighbouring continuum).
- Near Infrared Studies:
Using NIR imagers (including TIFR's 1-5 micron camera : TIRCAM) and optical imager / spectrometer from various ground based telescopes at the National observatories (at Hanle, Kavalur, Mt. Abu & Nainital).
Experimental Programmes:
An imaging camera based on the large format (512x512 pixels: InSb Aladdin III Quadrant array) is under development. This camera with unique capabilities of imaging through the entire range of 1 to 5 micron, will be used in near future for challenging astronomical studies using the 2-meter Himalayan Chandra Telescope at Hanle (Ladakh).Proposed an Infra Red Spectroscopic Imaging Survey (IRSIS) payload for an Indian Satellite to carry out a spectroscopic survey of ~ 50% of the sky including a good fraction of the Galactic plane in 1.7 - 6.5 micron wavelength with a spectral resolution of ~ 100 and spatial resolution of ~ 15".
To develop a NIR spectrometer and imager (covering 1 - 2.5 micron waveband) based on 1024 x 1024 HgCdTe focal plane for use with large aperture (Dtel >= 2 meter) Indian telescopes.
Current Instrumentation Activities:
Orientation and stabilization of platforms for balloon borne astronomy; High reliability remote control instrumentation; Signal processing; Telecommunication and data acquisition systems; Instrumental developments (NIR imagers and spectrometer) for ground based Optical/IR Indian telescopes (2 meter IUCAA, Hanle and 3.6 meter ARIES).Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope (UVIT) for the first Indian Multi-wavelength Astronomy Satellite ASTROSAT.
Associated Members
Regular Members: