Constraining Dark Energy: an observational study of the properties of dark energy and dark matter

Objective

The recent discovery that the expansion of the universe is accelerating due to an unknown “dark energy” highlights the limited understanding of the major constituents of the universe. This surprising result, along with the finding that most matter is invisible, sets the stage for research in cosmology at the start of the 21st century: the study of the distribution of “dark matter” and the properties of the dark energy are among the most important problems in astronomy. It is a data-driven endeavour since we lack a clear theoretical framework. The objective of this proposal is to advance observational constraints to a level where physical mechanisms that could underlie the dark energy can be distinguished. The method of choice for this proposal is a relatively new technique called “weak gravitational lensing”, which allows one to “map” the distribution of dark matter and how it evolves with time. It also provides a unique way to study the mass distribution in massive clusters of galaxies. Understanding the formation and physical properties of these rare systems is mandatory, if their number density as a function of mass and redshift is to be used as a cosmological tool. The aim of this proposal is to fully exploit the large amounts of world-class data the applicant has access to. The resulting measurements of the dark energy properties will be among the most accurate ones available, and this work will be an important step forward to reach the ultimate goal of percent level accuracy. In addition, a number of ancillary projects, in particular the study of dark matter halos around galaxies, will provide unique constraints on the properties of dark matter.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

CORDIS classifies projects with EuroSciVoc, a multilingual taxonomy of fields of science, through a semi-automatic process based on NLP techniques. See: The European Science Vocabulary.

• natural sciences physical sciences astronomy astrophysics dark matter
• natural sciences physical sciences astronomy physical cosmology

Keywords

Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)

• Astronomy
• Cosmology
• Dark Energy
• Dark Matter
• Physical sciences

Programme(s)

Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.

• FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013)

Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

• PEOPLE-2007-4-3.IRG - Marie Curie Action: "International Reintegration Grants"

Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

FP7-PEOPLE-IRG-2008
See other projects for this call

Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

MC-IRG - International Re-integration Grants (IRG)

Coordinator