Astronomy explained

Swiss research in astronomy is extremely active and enjoys an excellent international network. Two researchers from Switzerland observed the first planet outside our Solar System, and their achievement was acknowledged when they received the Nobel Prize in 2019. Other research teams are gaining insights into the behaviour of the Sun, developing theories on how the universe has developed from the Big Bang to the present day or measuring and investigating high-energy particles that reach us from space. Swiss institutions are also involved in numerous ESA observation stations on Earth and in space. It was also announced in 2022 that a Swiss national would once again be permitted to take part in ESA's astronaut training programme. In addition to providing a general introduction to the specialised topics of astronomy, this portal provides an abundance of information on where Swiss universities are leading or collaborating in astronomy projects. An overview can be found in the chapter "Research in Switzerland". However, there are also repeated references to this in all other chapters. And; if you want to get involved yourself, you can find organisations from Switzerland under "Find out more" where laypersons can also participate.