Astrophysics is a science that applies principles of physics to many fields of astronomy.
It tries to determine the physical nature, origin, and development of the solar system, stars, galaxies, and universe. Research in astrophysics includes the study of cosmic rays. These high-energy particles are believed to originate from the sun, pulsars, supernovae, and certain other kinds of stars. Cosmic-ray studies help astrophysicists better understand the nuclear processes that occur within such stars. Astrophysicists make use of telescopes to study cosmic objects that give off electromagnetic waves in the form of visible and infrared light.