This project expects to have impact both in fundamental science and technological knowledge, particularly in the context of space sciences and technologies.
It directly supports SKA science goals by addressing key astrophysical questions where HI plays a fundamental role. This research will constrain cosmological simulations and improve the interpretation of high-z by analysing HI symmetry in isolated galaxies. It will explore how accretion influences galaxy evolution and interacts with DM halos, providing the first characterisation of DM profiles in isolated galaxies. By combining interferometric and single-dish HI data, we will identify missing HI in compact groups, revealing the connection between group cores, large-scale environments, and cold gas properties. The study will also depict environmental processes in Hydra I that will represent a key phase in the evolutionary sequence of galaxy clusters, supporting next-generation SKA research. Additionally, it will establish a southern-hemisphere counterpart to the AMIGA sample, offering key SKAO targets and references for cold gas accretion studies. The proposed research will deliver critical insights that maximize the scientific return of SKAO.
The project places strong emphasis on technological development to optimise the use of computational resources, reducing operational costs and enhancing efficiency. Its commitment to Open Science and reproducibility ensures that outcomes will be openly shared with the scientific community, serving as a valuable knowledge hub and facilitating the exploitation of the SKAO. Furthermore, the project seeks to transfer its technological developments to several contexts, including the SKA Regional Centres Network (SRCNet), industry, and High Performance Computing (HPC) centres, broadening its applicability and impact.
Technologically, it addresses critical challenges in Open Science, Exascale Computing, and HPC, prioritising the application of FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable) principles in line with the EU’s 2018/790 recommendations. The IAA team is championing the Open Science initiative within the SKA project, included as a mandatory element under Horizon Europe policy. With the PI serving as Spain’s representative on the SKAO Council and the SRCNet Advisory Committee, and the team’s leadership in one of the SRCNet international groups alongside collaborations with other SRC prototypes, the project is poised to deliver significant impact across all levels of the SKA project.
This project supports Spain’s complementary plans in astrophysics and high-energy physics by advancing cutting-edge instrumentation, aiding in galaxy mapping and dark matter studies, and driving the application of HPC and AI for processing large astronomical datasets.
Project contributions also extend to other research infrastructures and ESFRIs through collaboration agreements between the SKAO and organisations such as CERN, GÉANT, PRACE, CTAO, and ESO. By focusing on research infrastructures, artificial intelligence, and high-performance computing, it promotes European leadership in digital and enabling technologies while fostering sustainable, world-class research facilities.
In summary, AMIGA9 combines innovative scientific research with advanced technological developments, strengthening Spain’s potential to drive scientific excellence, technological innovation, and societal and economical progress.