Cosmology and Astronomy
How do galaxies form? What are dark matter and dark energy? And what will be the ultimate fate of the Universe?
We are active members of a global community of astrophysicists, cosmologists and space scientists searching for answers to some of the biggest questions in physics today.
With advanced supercomputer technology and access to the most powerful telescopes on Earth – and in space – we simulate and observe the Universe in a quest to unravel its mysteries.
We are also helping to build the next generation of ground and space-based telescopes that will expand the frontiers of cosmic knowledge.
Our excellent research environment and facilities attract scientists from across the globe to come to this beautiful city in the North of England to work with us.
Ultimately our goal is to extend society’s knowledge and understanding of the Universe and our place within it.
Astronomers get detailed view of Cosmic Web
The Cosmic Web is believed to contain huge threads of gas that connect multiple galaxies across the universe. Now our astronomers have observed these threads extending over three million light years. This is the first time that the Cosmic Web has been imaged in such detail on large scales joining together several galaxies.
Featured Research
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Networks
Durham University hosts the COSMA supercomputer, an international facility used by scientists across the world to simulate the evolution of the Universe with unprecedented accuracy.
COSMA plays a key role in the UK’s Distributed Research utilising Advanced Computing (DiRAC) facility supporting research in cosmology, astrophysics, particle physics and nuclear physics.
The Institute for Computational Cosmology is a major partner in the international Virgo Consortium for Cosmological Supercomputer Simulations.
Outreach and Events
Galaxy Makers – Design Your Own Universe!
Higgs to Hubble schools outreach
ICC dedicated outreach page