LEOPARD scientists are involved in the observation and the understanding of nuclei of active galaxies. [which questions?] In such galaxies the rate of star formation is much higher that for example our own Milky Way. The cores of those galaxies are bright but can also be obscured by large amounts of dust and gas, which make optical observations hard. [is this why you do infrared observations?]
We also try to learn more about the structure and properties of so called starburst galaxies in which the rate of star formation is exceptionally high [even higher than ‘active galaxies’ or is this basically the same?] Infrared observations show the dynamics in these galaxies and show how shockwaves from the core can trigger star formation.
[can you mention some projects/observatories?]
LEOPARD scientists involved