Infrastructure project (II): Technical Section

Infrastructure funding for building scientific equipment Infrastructure funding for scientific equipment construction (investments in equipment at non-university research institutions)

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Project description

The infrastructure project is called "Infrastructure funding for scientific equipment development" and is being carried out by Technical Section.

What is it about?

One of the main activities of the Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP) is the development and construction of state-of-the-art astronomical instruments for large optical telescopes. The AIP's portfolio focuses on optical spectroscopic instruments and robotic telescopes, but also includes space-based projects. The AIP can look back on a long list of successfully commissioned, predominantly terrestrial high-tech instruments.

Astrophysical research places the highest technical demands on the instruments developed, at the limits of what is technically feasible. The instruments developed are the basis for gaining knowledge in almost all areas of modern astrophysics.

The aim of the project is to strengthen applied research, technological development and innovation in the state of Brandenburg: To this end, equipment will be purchased that will provide complementary technologies for scientific equipment construction at the institute and enable innovative research in the future. At the same time, the measures planned in the project are driving digital change through the introduction of new technologies and helping to make work more networked, digital and flexible (Work 4.0).

Objectives of the project

The transfer of knowledge from basic research offers unique innovation potential, which is often accompanied by technological challenges that cannot be overcome by small and medium-sized enterprises alone. In order to meet these challenges and successfully develop prototypes, access to a pool of state-of-the-art equipment is indispensable. Last but not least, the possibility for the AIP to participate in national and international instrumentation projects is determined by the technical capabilities available at the institute.

Within the framework of this project, production equipment necessary for the construction of the latest astronomical instruments will be procured and put into operation.

Who is funding the project and how much?

This project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the state of Brandenburg. The funding is provided in the form of partial financing amounting to 60% of the eligible expenditure as a grant. The maximum amount of the grant is limited to EUR 333,407.94.