PRIN 2006
ASTROPHYSICS TO THE QUANTUM LIMIT

The greater part of the information on the Universe comes through the electromagnetic radiation (light).
Astronomy until now has only exploited the first order correlation properties of the light coming from celestial sources. However, photons have much more complex properties than intensity alone, even if resolved in arrival direction, energy, polarization.The second and higher order coherence functions carry precious information on the emission mechanisms, and on subsequent scattering processes in the journey to the observer.

We do not plan to build a better or larger instrument, but actually to utilize the photons in a different perspective.
The purpose of our project is to make a decisive step in this direction.
To reach this goal, we shall make use of our capabilities of astronomical observations, previous theoretical and experimental experience for the design, fabrication, test and implementation of innovative diffractive optics, of formation of researchers, students and technicians, of promotion of spin-off enterprises in the territory.