Point sources are automatically detected and extracted from the image within sub-pixel accuracy. With this method the photometric accuracy for both point sources and extended objects as well as the astrometric accuracy can be considerably improved. The algorithms are implemented on multiprocessor systems. Other applications of MIM are radio interferometry observations and time series analysis of irregularly spaced observations. Further research projects are connected with the above main fields, aiming at new single objects displaying unusual characteristics.
Most activities are basic research.
A deconvolution method developed at this institute can be applied, e.g., to tomography, seismology, spectroscopy, or in the interpretation of radar data. Public services offered by the institute include the supplying of astronomical information concerning phases of the moon, sunrise and sunset times, and information on UFOs. The institute is also engaged in PR work, and is active in giving seminars in modern astronomy to teachers. There is an intensive contact to foreign institutions, e.g., in Padua, Sendai, Kiel, Bonn, Meudon, Tautenburg. Practically all scientists of the institute have worked several times at foreign institutions.