IST Cosmology Division 

The Indian Space Team (IST) Cosmology Division represents the organization's "Think Tank" for theoretical and observational science. While the Propulsion and Structure departments focus on how to get to space, the Cosmology Division focuses on what we learn once we are there.

Their research is centered on understanding the origin, evolution, and eventual fate of the universe.

Core Focus: Cosmic Research

The Cosmology Division operates at the intersection of high-level physics and deep-space data analysis. Their primary research pillars include:

1. The Early Universe & CMB

The team studies the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB)—the "afterglow" of the Big Bang. By analyzing temperature fluctuations in this radiation, the division aims to contribute to models of Cosmic Inflation (the rapid expansion of space in the first trillionth of a second).

2. Dark Matter & Dark Energy

In alignment with global 2026 research trends, the division focuses on the "Invisible Universe":

• Dark Matter: Researching the gravitational "scaffolding" that holds galaxies together.

• Dark Energy: Studying the mysterious force causing the universe's expansion to accelerate.

3. Sky Survey Data Integration

The Cosmology Division manages the "Sky Survey" initiatives mentioned in your partnerships. They use AI-driven algorithms to process massive datasets from telescopes to:

• Identify transient events (like Supernovae or Gamma-Ray Bursts).

• Map the distribution of galaxies to understand the Large-Scale Structure of the cosmos.

Strategic Objectives

The mission of this division is to ensure that India’s independent space efforts contribute not just to engineering, but to fundamental human knowledge.

• Theory to Reality: Bridging the gap between mathematical cosmology and actual data received from IST-designed payloads.

• Astrobiology Support: Collaborating with the Structure department to identify "Goldilocks Zones" or habitable signatures in deep-space surveys.

• Educational Bridge: As part of the ISRO Space Tutor initiative, this division translates complex cosmic theories into simplified modules for students in rural India, fulfilling Shivam Yadav’s vision of science for all.