Cosmology and Computers: HACCing the Universe

Abstract

Summary form only given. Deep and wide surveys of the sky have led to a remarkable set of discoveries in cosmology. As the survey volumes become so large that statistical uncertainties almost disappear, cosmological modeling must reach unprecedented levels of scale and accuracy to properly interpret observational results. I will describe the key scientific problems and issues involved and then present the HACC (Hardware/Hybrid Accelerated Cosmology Code) framework, designed around a portable particle-based simulation model for the required, very high dynamic range applications. I will briefly cover the key features of HACC and plans for its future development, focusing on computational, algorithmic, and physics advances, in-situ analysis, and resilience features, while emphasizing the associated computer science needs.