Maryland Astronomy Center for Theory and Computation

The Maryland Astronomy Center for Theory and Computation (CTC) is the umbrella for theory- and computation-related programs within the Department of Astronomy. The mission of the CTC is to promote excellence and innovation in theoretical astrophysics, providing a collective identity and focus point for both research and educational activities. Groups and individuals within the CTC pursue cutting-edge research that covers the full spectrum of technical and topical disciplines within contemporary astrophysics, and maintain collaborations with other theoretical and observational research groups worldwide. A major CTC emphasis is on developing and using state-of-the-art computational tools to extend the frontiers of astrophysical knowledge.

The CTC is the administrative structure that manages theory-related activities and resources within the Astronomy Department, including the theory seminar series ("Theory Lunch"), the Theory Visitors Program, and the Beowulf computing cluster (the Borg).

Many of the CTC's interactions take place within Room 1224, the Theory Think Tank.

Recent Work By CTC Members

Two rubble piles colliding. (Derek Richardson) Column density and polarization in a simulated molecular cloud. (Eve Ostriker) Profile of an iron line from a black hole as an X-ray pulse passes over it. (Chris Reynolds) Ionization of the intergalactic medium by the first stars and galaxies. (Massimo Ricotti) Spiral arm spurs and GMCs formed in a galactic model (Rahul Shetty & Eve Ostriker )