معرفی
Kosmas Gazeas is a Lecturer of Observational Astrophysics in the Department of Physics at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (UOA), with prior research roles at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics and the European Space Agency (ESA) in the Netherlands. Since 2012, he has served as an ESA scientific consultant specializing in space optics, while conducting observational campaigns at the University of Athens Observatory (UOAO) using data from Hubble, CHEOPS, and TESS missions.
Education:
- Physics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
- MSc & PhD in Observational Astrophysics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
- Post-doctoral research, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics
Research Focus: Dr. Gazeas's work spans three interconnected domains: (1) Exoplanetary Systems—atmospheric characterization of hot Jupiters and mini-Neptunes, orbital dynamics, and exomoon searches; (2) Stellar Astrophysics—eclipsing binaries, blazars, supernovae, and asteroseismology; (3) Solar System Bodies—asteroids, trans-Neptunian objects, and comets. His methodology integrates space-based photometry with ground-based observations and emphasizes applied optics for astronomical instrumentation.
Publication Trends: Analysis of his 2024-2025 publications reveals dominant themes in CHEOPS-driven exoplanet research, particularly thermal inversion layers in exoplanet atmospheres and resonant planetary systems. Significant secondary efforts address blazar jet physics and rotational properties of ancient asteroid families, demonstrating methodological versatility across time-domain astrophysics through international collaborations (TESS, HARPS-N).
Scientific Recognition: No formal awards are documented, though he was shortlisted among the top 500 global candidates in the 2008 ESA Astronaut Selection Process—a testament to his scientific caliber.
Mentorship & Outreach: He mentors students at UOA, supervises UOAO observational projects, and spearheads public engagement via 'Public Nights - Astronomy for All' and the Athens Science Festival. His 'Planets In Your Hand' initiative provides tactile astronomy experiences for visually impaired audiences, reflecting deep commitment to science communication.
Research Infrastructure: Primary observational work occurs at UOAO, with data analysis leveraging CHEOPS, TESS, and international facilities. He coordinates multinational teams for asteroid campaigns (e.g., Ancient Asteroids project) and contributes to space mission science teams.
