The Argelander-Institute for Astronomy
The Argelander Institute for Astronomy (AIfA) is part of the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Bonn. Research groups at the institute focus on various areas of theoretical and observational astronomy - from stars to cosmology.
The AIfA benefits from close collaboration with the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy (MPIfR) in the neighbouring building, which provides access to the 100-metre radio telescope in Effelsberg. Furthermore, the AIfA is able to participate in national and international collaborations. The utilisation of telescopes such as ALMA, EUCLID, eROSITA, JVLA, IRAM (30 metres), APEX and SOFIA enables researchers to gain further profound insights into the universe. A state-of-the-art computer centre is available for theoretical investigations.
The AIfA places great emphasis on internationality. Researchers from over 25 countries are represented in this modern educational establishment. Of the approximately 130 employees, almost half are scientists. The remaining half consists of doctoral students, Master's students and some non-scientific staff who play an important role in the institute's operations. The majority of international doctoral students have been admitted to the Bonn programme through the Bonn-Cologne Graduate School (BCGS).
A 50-cm telescope has been installed on the roof of the institute and is used for the practical training of students as part of their education. Furthermore, the telescope is made available to the public in collaboration with local associations and educational institutions, with the objective of facilitating access to the night sky for those with a general interest in astronomy.
In 2006, three smaller university institutes merged to form the Argelander Institute. The institute ultimately traces its roots back to the university's observatory, established by F. W. A. Argelander (1799–1875), who is commemorated by the institute's name. Argelander gained international renown for his Bonn Photometric Catalogue, his research on variable stars, and his determination of the first stellar distances. A short history of astronomy in Bonn can be found here on our website.