Our understanding of gravity—and with it, the origin, structure, and evolution of the universe—has advanced dramatically in recent years. These breakthroughs would not have been possible without continuous efforts to develop cutting-edge ground-based and space-based experiments. Each new generation of these experiments not only demanded major technological innovation but also required sophisticated data analysis techniques to handle the enormous volumes of data with ever-greater precision.
The ESA satellite Planck, for instance, has given us the most accurate measurements to date of tiny temperature variations in the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB), the afterglow of the Big Bang. Combined with other observations, these measurements have allowed scientists to build a precise picture of how the large-scale structure of the universe formed over time. Our research group used these data to test various theories of gravity, particularly in the early and linear phases of cosmic evolution.
The next step in this quest is Euclid, ESA’s new satellite mission. To fully interpret its data, we will need highly advanced tools—especially powerful simulations that model how cosmic structures, such as galaxies and clusters, form in more complex and realistic scenarios. Our team developed novel simulations that go beyond existing models by incorporating effects from more general gravity theories.
Gravitational wave (GW) astronomy is another exciting new window into the universe. Since LIGO’s historic first detection in 2015, we’ve been able to "listen" to ripples in spacetime caused by cosmic events like black hole collisions. These signals are incredibly subtle—LIGO can detect changes smaller than the width of a hydrogen atom over the distance between the Earth and the Sun. ESA’s upcoming LISA mission, a space-based gravitational wave observatory, will take this sensitivity even further.
To interpret GW data correctly, we must understand in detail how compact objects like black holes merge—a task that requires precise theoretical predictions. Through this ERC project, our group has played a key role in unlocking the scientific potential of both Euclid and LISA. These two flagship missions represent milestones in ESA’s long-term strategy, and we are proud to be actively contributing to their success.
