The continuous evolution of observational astronomy requires increasingly complex tools, and the Brera Astronomical Observatory is internationally recognized for its technological research.
Since the 1960s, Brera has excelled in the study of optics for observing the sky in the X-ray and UV bands, and today we collaborate on major international projects. We have developed the calibration laboratories (BEaTriX and VERT-X) for the flight optics of New-Athena (ESA), collaborate with ASI on the prototyping of thin monolithic mirrors for LYNX (NASA/MSFC), and we will produce the optical components for MUSE and MANTIS (both NASA UV missions).
In recent decades, Brera has become a reference point for the design and development (HW/SW) of high-resolution spectrographs. SOXS, CUBES, and ANDES are at various stages of development and will leverage the power of the large Chilean telescopes (NTT, VLT, and ELT). ELT, the ESO project to build the largest optical-infrared telescope ever constructed, will guarantee extraordinary resolution thanks to adaptive optics (M4 mirror and MORFEO module) developed by an Italian consortium coordinated by INAF, with Brera playing a key role.
Brera is also the leading INAF center for the development of ground-based Cherenkov telescopes that will revolutionize astrophysics in extremely high-energy ranges (>100 TeV). After the completion of the ASTRI-Horn prototype inaugurated in 2014, we have been responsible for designing the INAF ASTRI-MiniArray Cherenkov Observatory, which will soon be operational in Tenerife, and we are overseeing the construction of ASTRI-type telescopes, which will be part of the CTA Cherenkov Observatory in Chile.
Finally, Brera is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories that are internationally recognized, where we host machines for optical processing, metrology instruments, and a chemistry area for the development of high-efficiency dispersive systems and innovative optical materials.
Staff
Aliverti Matteo
Basso Stefano
Bianco Andrea
Castagna Fabio
Civitani Marta
Cotroneo Vincenzo
Frangiamore Michele
Genoni Matteo
Ghigo Mauro
Iovenitti Simone
Landoni Marco
Marchetti Alida
Millul Rachele
Molinari Emilio
Moretti Alberto
Oggioni Luca
Pariani Giorgio
Pareschi Giovanni
Proserpio Laura
Rankin John
Riva Marco
Salmaso Bianca
Spiga Daniele
Sironi Giorgia
Gabriele Vecchi
Zanutta Alessio
