Astrophysics and space science research efforts at JPL primarily study the physics and origins of our galaxy, and ultimately the universe. Research focuses on, among other things, developing new techniques to observe gravitational waves, observing magnetic fields and plasmas, theoretical modeling of star and planet formation, and the measuring of atomic collisions in a laboratory setting.
Cosmologists are currently developing new detector technologies, new instruments, and new concepts for future astrophysics space missions to study the universe as a single system.
Researchers study extrasolar planets, planet formation, and the next generation of technologies needed to image them directly.
Current research on relativistic astrophysics, gravitational-wave astronomy, and gamma-ray astrophysics.
Researchers at JPL try to understand how galaxies function as systems by looking at changes in dark matter, stars, and gases over time.
