Skip to main content

We explore the Universe: from planets to stars, galaxies and the Big Bang.

About

We focus on the formation and evolution of the Universe on all scales - from planetary systems, stars and galaxies to the shape of space and time itself. Our work on supermassive blackholes and supernovae explores the highest energy events in the Universe, and how they drive galaxy evolution and distribute the ingredients for forming planets and life. At the largest scale, our cosmology team observe the cosmic microwave background to reveal the fundamental physics that shapes our Universe.  

Through a mix of cutting-edge observations, computer simulations and fundamental theory, our group covers a wide range of contemporary astrophysics.

As part of the Cardiff Hub for Astrophysics and Technology (CHART), the umbrella group for all of our astrophysicists and one of the largest in the UK, we work closely with the Astronomy Instrumentation Group to help design and operate new instruments that will expand our understanding of the Universe.

News

A telescope image of the Red Spider Nebula

Webb serves up Halloween treat with new images of cosmic creepy crawly

Telescope reveals never-before-seen details in Red Spider Nebula

The butterfly nebula, NGC 6302, captured by the James Webb Space Telescope.

JWST observations of Butterfly Nebula reveal how cosmic dust is made in space

Astronomers say observations show planetary nebulae are surprisingly dynamic objects which create cool gemstones and fiery grime

An observation from the Atacama Cosmology Telescope

Telescope observations reveal universe’s hours-old baby pictures, scientists say

Most precise images to date enabled team to put standard model of cosmology through rigorous tests

Synthesized false colour image of Venus, using 283-nm and 365-nm band images taken by the Venus Ultraviolet Imager (UVI)

Hints of life on Venus

International team of astronomers, led by Cardiff University discovers rare molecule in the clouds of Venus

People

Discover more

academic-school

Research that matters

Our research makes a difference to people’s lives as we work across disciplines to tackle major challenges facing society, the economy and our environment.

microchip

Postgraduate research

Our research degrees give the opportunity to investigate a specific topic in depth among field-leading researchers.

icon-chat

Our research impact

Our research case studies highlight some of the areas where we deliver positive research impact.