Scientists are using the "echo" of light to map the dusty structures surrounding supermassive black holes
Sandeep K S
Jan 25
1 min read
This illustration explores how scientists decode a quasar's echo by analyzing light echoes across various wavelengths. It highlights the composition of quasar dust, revealing that smaller graphite particles dominate near-infrared radiation, while larger silicate particles prevail in mid-infrared radiation, enhancing our understanding of these cosmic phenomena.
Astrophysicists have completed ASTRID, the largest cosmological hydrodynamic simulation ever run, tracing the universe from the cosmic dawn ($z=99$) down to the present day ($z=0$). By resolving 166 billion particles across 815 million light-years, ASTRID unveils how supermassive black holes co-evolve with galaxies and sculpt the cosmic web.
Scientists have uncovered the first robust evidence of a black hole and neutron star crashing together while orbiting in an oval path, challenging long-standing assumptions about cosmic pair formation.
Most neutron star-black hole pairs are expected to adopt circular orbits long before merging, their orbits slowly rounded out by the constant emission of gravitational waves over millions of years.
Far from the warmth of any star, moons orbiting rogue gas giants might harbor oceans of liquid water—and potentially complex life—for billions of years.
Liquid water is considered essential for life. Surprisingly, however, stable conditions that are conducive to life could exist far from any sun.
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