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The edge of the Milky Way's star-forming disc revealed

Astronomers have identified the edge of the Milky Way's star-forming disc for the first time, finding that most star formation happens within 40,000 light-years of the Galactic Center. This discovery uses a new approach combining star ages with galaxy simulations to pinpoint the boundary.

SourceUniversity of Malta·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 21, 2026

New map of the Milky Way’s magnetism offers insights into cosmic evolution

Researchers have created the first broadband map of Faraday rotation, revealing a complex magnetic field in the Milky Way. The dataset, DRAGONS, captures polarized radio emissions across a wide range of frequencies, allowing astronomers to see magnetic structures invisible before.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series·TypeObservational study·DateJan 29, 2026