(AUSTRALIA)

A new multi-million dollar research centre has been launched in Australia that will use 3D technology to explore the universe.

TheAustralian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence for All-sky Astrophysics in 3 Dimensions (ASTRO 3D) is located atthe Australian National University. It will receive$30.3 million over seven years through anARC Centres of Excellencescheme.

This new centre, to be led by 2015 ARC Australian Laureate Fellow, Professor Lisa Kewley,will use new 3-D technology to help unlock the secrets of the early universe and the development of elements that make up the periodic table, said Professor Sue Thomas,ARC Chief Executive Officer.

ASTRO 3D will answer fundamental questions in astrophysics, to help build a picture of the evolution of matter, the periodic table of elements, and energy in the universe from shortly after the Big Bang until the present day.

The Centre will propel Australia to the forefront of astronomical research, to develop and use high-tech instruments that will be crucial for the next generation of giant optical and radio telescopes, such as the Giant Magellan Telescope and Square Kilometre Array.

ASTRO 3D will involve researchers at institutions across Australia and overseas, including astronomers, astrophysicists, engineers and computer scientists. The Centre will also nurture young scientific leaders and encourage high-school students interested in STEM sciences through education and outreach programs.

The centre will collaborate with other Australian universities, as well as international stakeholders, including theCalifornia Institute of Technology, theNetherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy, theUniversity of Oxford and theChinese Academy of Sciences.

3D technologyAustralian National UniversityAustralian Research Council

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3D tech to unlock secrets of universe - Innovators Magazine