Reionization and First Stars

最近来自威尔金森微波各向异性探测器和斯隆数字巡天的观测结果表明，宇宙再电离可能会延长，而且比之前认为的要复杂得多。这项研究将系统地研究与宇宙再电离和加热过程有关的所有天体物理过程，为正确解释高红移宇宙的主要观测建立一个工作框架。半解析方法和最先进的流体力学和辐射流体动力学模拟将用于这两个方面，并专注于更全面地了解高红移恒星的形成。观测和理论预测之间的知情比较应该有助于计算出正确的宇宙学模型。这项研究将纳入一个持续的推广计划，旨在加强公众对宇宙学研究的科学理解。结果将通过各种渠道可视化和展示，包括天星馆和公共电视台。模拟的技术需求也将考验高性能计算的进步。

AST-0407176CenRecent observations from the Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe and the Sloan Digital Sky Survey together suggest that the universal reionization may be prolonged and much more complex than previously thought. This research will systematically study all of the astrophysical processes relevant to the universal reionization and heating process, to set up a working framework for proper interpretation of major observations of the high redshift universe. Semi-analytic methods and state-of-the-art hydrodynamical and radiation hydrodynamical simulations will be used both for this, and to focus on gaining a fuller understanding of star formation at high redshift. Informed comparison between observations and theoretical predictions should help with working out the correct cosmological model. This research will feed into a continuing outreach program intended to enhance the scientific understanding of cosmological research by the general public. Results will be visualized and presented through various channels, including planetaria and public television. The technological demand of the simulations will also test advances in high performance computing.