Scientific Goals

CENTRA develops, among other subjects, research in the area of ​​Solar and Stellar Physics . The SSPG pursues mainly 2 lines of research: the first is devoted to the study of dark matter using stellar models and advanced techniques of Helioseismology and the second one is related to the evolution of the Sun's magnetic field, solar dynamo models and its implications for Space Weather. A parallel objective is to use the Sun (through sophisticated solar models and Helioseismic observations) as an instrument to test and validate other scientific theories (eg. alternative theories of gravitation) .

SSPG investigates the behavior of stellar models under the influence of dark matter. Through the use of highly calibrated solar/stellar models it is possible to study the effects that various types of candidates for dark matter have in stellar evolution or even secondary effects that may be produced by alternative theories of gravitation.

Regarding the Solar Physics topic, we model the behavior of the Sun's magnetic field using mean field dynamo and global magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations of solar convection. These MHD simulations are at the forefront of current research and are becoming one of the most powerful tools to help understand the origin and evolution of the solar magnetic field. Other solar phenomena that have a direct impact on Earth and its surrounding space are also subjects of research.

 

 

To know more about our research themes please visit our Outreach area (in portuguese at the moment) and our publications record.

Dark matter and its impact in stellar evolution

The solar magnetic field, production and evolution