On January 17th, Yonsei University exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA) to cooperate in establishing a world-class Joint Research Center for Astronomy and Advanced Technology (JRCfA) at Yonsei Global Academic Complex at Songdo, Incheon. As the world’s largest and most diverse astrophysical institution in the world, CfA has pioneered in astrophysical research, including the development of orbiting observatories and large ground-based telescopes, application of computers to astrophysical problems, and integration of theoretical astrophysics with observed data. Over 900 scientists, engineers, and technicians participate in research and development at the CfA Harvard headquarters and branch centers. Yonsei University hopes to contribute its own scientists and engineers, and later on its own large ground-based telescope.
The new JRCfA will focus on three key areas. First, development of large telescope science including cosmology, which has been very difficult to pursue in Korea due to the lack of large facilities. Yonsei faculty and students will now be able collaborate in research with CfA and access the three 6.5 meter ground-based telescopes (MMT & Magellan). Second, development of advanced engineering capability for future state-of-the-art instrumentation. Yonsei will begin by participating in existing engineering programs at CfA and will consider expanding into more ambitious projects such as building of the world’s largest, 25 meter ground-based Giant Magellan Telescope. Last, development of information technology, a key element of survey astronomy and virtual observatories. High capacity and high speed computing and networking, as well as super-resolution imaging technology will be our primary areas of concentration. Through JRCfA, CfA hopes to create a strong partnership with Yonsei in future endeavors, such as the creation of new telescopes and development of technology to enhance the speed and resolution of images acquired by existing large telescopes. Location in Songdo, which is expected to become a hotbed of international research collaboration, JRCfA will aggressively pursue collaboration with research centers throughout Asia to establish itself as the central hub of astrophysical research in Asia.