In addition, the department continues to make measurements of the local geomagnetic field, measurements started by the Auroral Observatory before it was incorporated into the University. Research projects span from fundamental physics topics to more applications-oriented topics. Current assignments are in the region of astroseismology and mass transfer in a binary star system. Space geophysics covers the Earth's middle and upper atmosphere and magnetosphere.
Northern lights are a typical and well-known phenomenon of the high latitude ionosphere.
State and processes in these regions are strongly coupled to the sun through its radiation and outflow of charged particles. The radars are used for the investigation of the Earth's middle and upper atmosphere, magnetosphere and Northern lights. In addition to these investigations, observations with optical instruments and magnetometers are carried out. Investigation of the Earth's ozone layer and UV-radiation is also included in space geophysics in Troms . Analysis of molecular phenomena, for example chemical binding and intermolecular interaction.