PI : Gianluca Castignani
Project Code ID (CUP): C83C25000440006
Start date : May 29, 2025
The PNRR-funded project focuses on the multi-wavelength characterization and follow-up of high-energy astrophysical sources, with particular emphasis on TeV emitters that are expected to be detected and monitored by the upcoming Cherenkov Telescope Array Observatory (CTAO).
This research aims to combine observations across the electromagnetic spectrum—ranging from radio to very-high-energy gamma rays—to achieve a comprehensive physical understanding of the most extreme cosmic sources. A key aspect of my activity involves the planning and coordination of follow-up of high-energy transients and variable sources, as well as the construction of their spectral and temporal properties through coordinated multi-instrument observations.
By integrating data from different observatories, this work contributes to the identification, characterization, and physical interpretation of cosmic particle accelerators such as active galactic nuclei, pulsar wind nebulae, and other extreme TeV-emitting systems. These studies are essential for preparing the scientific exploitation of CTAO and advancing our understanding of the high-energy Universe.
Within this framework, my activities have focused on discussions regarding the scientific exploitation of VSTPOL, a forthcoming linear polarimetric filter that will be installed on the VLT Survey Telescope (VST) at Paranal Observatory, Chile. These efforts have led to the preparation of a white paper outlining a broad range of science cases relevant to future VST observing campaigns. The proposed science cases cover both Galactic and extragalactic targets exhibiting optical polarization, including variable, transient, and steady-state sources, as well as wide-field survey applications. This work highlights the potential of VSTPOL to address key questions across multiple astrophysical domains. I coordinated the preparation of the white paper and served as corresponding author (VSTPOL Collaboration, submitted to Experimental Astronomy). The paper involves approximately 50 co-authors, including leading international experts in optical polarimetry.