SRON is a leading international research institute operating at the forefront of space research to address fundamental questions about the cosmos and the Earth’s environment. As the primary space research institute in the Netherlands, SRON serves as a focal point for coordinating and conducting cutting-edge research in astrophysics and Earth science from space.
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At the international level, collaboration and cooperation are crucial for advancing space research. Organisations like ESA, NASA, and JAXA foster international partnerships through joint missions, data sharing, and scientific collaborations. SRON operates as a key player within this landscape by bringing together scientific expertise, developing innovative technologies, and the design and construction of advanced instrumentation. SRON acts as a hub for space-based research and cutting-edge instrument development. SRON’s contributions enable Dutch astronomers to participate in international collaborations, publish ground-breaking research and contribute to the global understanding of the universe. Similarly, within the Earth observation community, SRON plays a crucial role in advancing Dutch expertise in studying and monitoring Earth’s atmosphere and climate. The institute develops advanced satellite instruments and analysis techniques that contribute to the country’s capabilities in Earth observation. SRON’s research and data provide valuable insights into climate change, air quality and environmental processes, enabling evidence-based efforts in environmental management, policy making and sustainable development.
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We pursue our mission through a combination of scientific research and technology development, instrument development, data analysis and mission participation. Our scientists conduct fundamental research ranging from the study of distant galaxies to investigating exoplanets, exploring the origins of the universe, and monitoring Earth's atmosphere and climate. SRON's instrumentation scientists and engineers design and build state-of-the-art instruments that are deployed on space telescopes and satellites to provide the data necessary for this cutting-edge research. Aditionally, SRON plays an important role in training and educating the next generation of space scientists and engineers.
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Take a look in our labs. They are equipped with cleanrooms for nanotechnology, precision hardware assembly and optical performance testing of instruments. Our cryostats can cool superconducting detectors down to 0.1 Kelvin. We are equipped with optical benches, electronics labs and workshops for hardware realisation including precision milling machines.
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The history of Dutch research with instruments in space begins around 1960. In the following years, forerunners of SRON prove that the Netherlands has an important place in the study of the universe and the Earth’s atmosphere, with Dutch science and Dutch instrumentation in space.
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“To work at an institute at the forefront of new technology, new space missions and new answers to scientific questions is incredibly inspiring.”
