HKU's Laboratory for Space Research - an interdisciplinary nexus for the future

Abstract

Advances in Astrophysics, and Space and Planetary Science depends on research that is highly international and collaborative and inherently interdisciplinary. It was on this basis that HKU established in January 2016 the Laboratory for Space Research (LSR). The rationale for LSR has always been to further international collaboration with a focus also on China to take advantage of the strongly emerging Chinese space programs and associated ground-based big science initiatives. We are an interdisciplinary, tactical research laboratory designed to engage strongly with our key science ambitions and pursue strategic funding opportunities. The LSR fits comfortably and naturally at the interface between the new Physics and Astronomy and Earth and Planetary Sciences research divisions at HKU. The LSR currently engages in research in the following areas: (1) space-based earth remote sensing; (2) atmospheric science, magnetosphere, near Earth environment, and interaction between the solar wind and the Earth; (3) planetary and associated geological sciences and study of solar system objects; (4) astronomical observations of celestial objects and high-energy astrophysics from satellite-based telescopes. In this talk I will present an outline of the rationale, plans and vision for the LSR and our current science and educational programs.