Scientific Seminars

The Present and Future of CMB Polarization Observations

Nicoletta Krachmalnicoff
SISSA

2025-02-24    13:00    Dip. di Fisica, UNIMI, Via Celoria - - Aula Caldirola

Following the significant successes of the Planck space missions, we have entered a new era of Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) observations, with experiments now focusing on precise measurements of the polarized signal. These measurements have the potential to shed light on many open questions in fundamental physics. A primary goal of current and future CMB experiments is the detection of the signature of primordial gravitational waves in the so-called B-mode polarization signal, which would provide unprecedented insight into the physics of the Inflationary epoch. In this talk, I will briefly introduce the physics of CMB polarization, review the current status of observations, and discuss how we are preparing to meet the numerous challenges posed by these measurements. I will highlight the importance of both ground-based and space-based observations, present preliminary maps from the Simons Observatory, and outline ongoing studies aimed at finalizing the design of the future LiteBIRD space mission.