Franz Kerschbaum

Prof. Franz Kerschbaum is a University Professor and Vice Dean of the Faculty of Earth Sciences, Geography and Astronomy at the University of Vienna. He holds a position in the Department of Astrophysics and is actively involved in teaching, including courses such as 'Space Instrumentation' and 'Observational Lab Course'. His research focuses on evolved stars (especially AGB stars), mass-loss processes, and the development of astronomical instrumentation for space missions like PLATO, CHEOPS, ARIEL, and SPICA. He has contributed to studies involving the Herschel, GALEX, and ALMA observatories, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to stellar evolution and exoplanet detection.

Key research themes include the dynamics of circumstellar envelopes, dust formation mechanisms, and the application of advanced imaging techniques (e.g., interferometry). He collaborates with international teams on projects such as DEATHSTAR (studying AGB stars) and the EBLM Project (characterizing exoplanet hosts). His work bridges observational astronomy with technological innovation in space instrumentation.

Prof. Kerschbaum has published extensively on topics ranging from AGB star mass-loss asymmetries to mission-critical software for space telescopes. His educational contributions include pioneering courses on space instrumentation and observational astronomy, reflecting his dual commitment to research and academic training.