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Research group

Astronomy Group

A growing supermassive black hole, one of the most obscured known, meaning it is surrounded by extremely thick clouds of gas and dust

We study space and cosmic phenomena above the Earth’s atmosphere. We use observations of the heavens to better comprehend our place in the Solar system, to improve our understanding of the origin and growth of galaxies, extreme objects such as black holes, and the universe itself.

Part of Physics and astronomy

The Astronomy group is part of Physics and Astronomy. We are part of the larger Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, which brings together fundamental research with one of the UK's largest and strongest Electronics and Computer Science departments.
We are in the UK top 10 and world top 100 for Physics and Astronomy (QS World Rankings by Subject 2017).
100% of our research is rated world leading or internationally excellent for its impact on society (REF 2021).

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Research highlights

A satellite image of a galaxy, with a box zooming in on the centre and revealing a supermassive black hole hidden behind a cloud of gas and dust.

Revealing space’s secret supermassive black holes

Space
Scientists from the University of Southampton have found that there are more hidden supermassive black holes in the universe than previously thought.

Demystifying the universe’s largest galaxies

Space
The mystery of the creation of the universe’s biggest galaxies has almost been solved, thanks to new significant discoveries from an international team of experts, including members of the University of Southampton.
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Related research institutes, centres and groups

Southampton Theory Astrophysics and Gravity (STAG) Research Centre

The Southampton Theory, Astrophysics and Gravity (STAG) Research Centre brings together three research groups with world-leading expertise on issues relating to fundamental physics and astronomy.

Connect with us

Visit us

Physics and Astronomy, Building 46
University of Southampton
Highfield Campus
SO17 1BJ
Reception for the building is in Room 5001