EAS-EPS: collaboration in the sky
We could debate endlessly as to whether astronomy is physics applied to the cosmos, and the objects found therein, or whether physics is a special branch of astrophysics, one that deals with the phenomena accessible to the laboratory. What is certain is that both sciences have deep common roots.
The communities of (particle) physics and astrophysics are getting closer now, not only in their intellectual goals, but also through the development and use of common tools, like ground based or space borne telescopes, and laboratory experiments. It is hoped that this increased collaboration will help us understand the deep mysteries revealed by modern cosmological measurements; mysteries such as the nature of dark matter and energy.
Solar physics is a further area of long and fruitful collaboration: here the complex nature of the plasma making up the Sun and its corona can only be uncovered by a common effort of astronomers and physicists.
The European Astronomical Society (EAS) and the European Physical Society (EPS) are working towards bringing this spirit of collaboration between the two communities at the European level. In many respects our societies pursue a similar goal – that of making the voice of our communities better heard in Europe. We must stress the importance of knowledge in our societies and the fundamental value of free research in and above the more economic requirements of the modern world.
We would like to foster common endeavors, like meetings in those areas of interest to members of both societies. Solar physics and astroparticle physics are indeed two such areas. We would like to invite those who wish to make use of this possibility to approach EAS or EPS council members.
We would also like in the coming years to undertake common actions in the field of communication towards the public and education. The council of each of our societies will consider how this can be best approached.
Finally, another great opportunity for collaboration will be the initiative of the Quantum Electronics and Optics Division of the EPS for the declaration of an International Year of Light under the auspices of the United Nations. Most likely this will be held in 2014 or 2015, and will seal the “light-based” links of the EAS and the EPS.
Luisa Cifarelli, President of the EPS
Thierry Courvoisier, President of the EAS
