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Magnetism is one of the four fundamental forces in nature. Magnetic fields of the order from 10-13 to 1011 Tesla have been measured by direct or indirect means, spanning a range of 24 orders of magnitude! Magnetic fields influence the structure of matter on all scales. They can accelerate electrons to nearly the speed of light, and they are the key to understanding solar and stellar activity. In order to realistically describe dynamic processes in the universe, we need a collective understanding of the interaction between magnetic fields and matter on all scales of density, time and length – from the early universe to our Sun as it is today. Stellar and planetary magnetic fields play a key role in the formation and evolution of life on planets, as magnetic fields are shields against high-energy cosmic rays. Their existence also ensures the further evolution and survival of civilizations like ours. The research area “Cosmic Magnetic Fields” is dedicated to the exploration of these fields and the underlying magnetohydrodynamic mechanisms, as well as to the study of particle acceleration processes. |
