Astrophysics and Space Technologies

Exploring the universe through research and technology

The Astrophysics and Space Technologies Research Centre combines state-of-the-art capabilities in data and instrumentation with world-class astrophysics researchers, exploring the Universe in new ways from earth and space.

About us

The Astrophysics and Space Technologies Research Centre at Macquarie University is one of the fastest-growing concentrations of astronomy research excellence in Australia. It has consistently achieved the top national ranking for Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) since 2012.

The centre spans several schools in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, including:

• Mathematical and Physical Sciences
• Australian Astronomical Optics
• Computing
• Engineering.

The centre is also geographically close to CSIRO's Astrophysics and Space Science – the main radio astronomy centre in Australia.

Through these linkages, we aim to create new opportunities for collaboration on instrumentation development and data-intensive techniques with a connection to astrophysics research.

Our mission

We aim to:

• Advance research: We offer a uniquely wide range of opportunities for collaborations in observational astronomy, theoretical astrophysics, astrophotonics and instrumentation.
• Invest in the next generation of researchers: Providing a conducive environment for learning, collaboration and skill development.
• Make a global impact: Our extensive national and international collaborations ensure our research has global reach.
• Educate the public: We’re passionate about sharing our knowledge and discoveries with the public. Our on-campus observatory and inflatable planetarium are routinely visited by the greater public, students and school groups.