Dr. Lars Eriksen
Head of Stellar Astrophysics, Stellar Nursery Observation Initiative (SNOI)
Dr. Lars Eriksen is a renowned astrophysicist from Norway, specializing in the earliest stages of star and planetary formation. As the head of the Stellar Nursery Observation Initiative (SNOI), he leads a team that peers into dense molecular clouds to witness the birth of new stars. Using data from the world's most powerful infrared and radio telescopes, his research provides critical insights into the formation of protostars and protoplanetary disks. Dr. Eriksen's work is vital for understanding the origins of planetary systems, including our own, and the conditions necessary for life to emerge.
Publications by Dr. Lars Eriksen
August 13, 2025
Isotopic Analysis of Pre-Biotic Molecules in the Rho Ophiuchi Cloud Complex
Read Publication
August 9, 2025
Stellar Kinematics of Andromeda's Halo: Evidence for a Major Past Merger Event
Read Publication
August 9, 2025
High-Resolution Spectroscopic Analysis of Protostellar Disks in the Orion Nebula
Read Publication
FAQs about Dr. Lars Eriksen
The SNOI is a project led by Dr. Eriksen that uses powerful infrared and radio telescopes to look inside dense clouds of gas and dust, known as stellar nurseries, to directly observe the birth of new stars and planets.
As the Head of Stellar Astrophysics, Dr. Eriksen leads a team of researchers dedicated to understanding the complete life cycle of stars, with a special focus on the earliest stages of star and planetary system formation.
Because stellar nurseries are filled with dust that blocks visible light, scientists use infrared and radio telescopes. These instruments can peer through the dust to see the faint heat signatures of protostars and protoplanetary disks.
Studying star formation is crucial for understanding our own cosmic origins. It helps us answer how our Sun and solar system were formed and what conditions are necessary for creating planetary systems that might harbor life.