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Novel theory addresses centuries-old physics problem

A new study by Hebrew University researcher Professor Barak Kol introduces a novel approach to the three-body problem, predicting the probability of each body escaping the system. The theory avoids infinite probabilities and provides strong agreement with computer simulations, indicating a paradigm shift in understanding the system.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalCelestial Mechanics and Dynamical Astronomy·DateApr 13, 2021

How a ladybug warps space-time

Researchers at the University of Vienna have successfully measured the smallest gravitational force yet by using a ladybug-sized mass. The team, led by Markus Aspelmeyer and Tobias Westphal, has picked up on an idea from Henry Cavendish's 18th-century experiment to measure gravitational forces with increasing accuracy.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature·DateMar 10, 2021

Factoring in gravitomagnetism could do away with dark matter

A new general relativistic framework for models of galactic rotation curves alleviates the need for dark matter by incorporating gravitomagnetic fields. The theory proposes that these fields can explain the effects of dark matter, suggesting a possible elimination of this form of matter.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal C·DateMar 4, 2021

A new way of forming planets

Scientists have developed a new modelling technique to simulate the effects of both gravity and magnetism on planetary formation. The study suggests that magnetic fields can make it difficult for growing planets to accumulate mass beyond a certain point, resulting in a higher frequency of intermediate-mass planets.

SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 11, 2021

In tune with the moon

A team of scientists led by Charlotte Förster discovered a correlation between moon phases and women's menstrual cycles. The researchers found that the strength of the moon's light-dark cycle contributes to synchronizing menstruation in women, while gravity also plays a role.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 27, 2021

New measurements of the solar spectrum verify Einstein's theory of General Relativity

Scientists have successfully measured the iron lines in the solar spectrum using a laser frequency comb and HARPS instrument, verifying one of Einstein's predictions - the gravitational redshift effect. This confirms that General Relativity theory is correct and has significant implications for satellite navigation systems like GPS.

SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalAstronomy and Astrophysics·DateOct 8, 2020

The black hole always chirps twice: New clues deciphering the shape of black holes

Research reveals black holes emit complex signals when observed from their equator, indicating a unique relation between gravitational waves and black hole behavior. The team discovered that the final black hole's cusp emits more intense gravitational waves, producing multiple 'chirps' as it settles to its final form.

A 'bang' in LIGO and Virgo detectors signals most massive gravitational-wave source yet

Researchers have detected a signal from the most massive black hole merger observed in gravitational waves, producing an 'intermediate-mass' black hole with a mass of up to 1,000 solar masses. The merger released energy equivalent to eight suns and has raised questions about the formation of such massive black holes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 2, 2020

Astrophysics: A direct view of star/disk interactions

A team of astrophysicists observes newborn stars' magnetospheric accretion region for the first time, providing insight into star formation mechanisms. The study uses the Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI) and GRAVITY instrument to measure angular size and prove magnetospheric accretion taking place close to stellar surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature·DateAug 31, 2020

'Bottom-heavy squirmers' adopt characteristic group behaviours

A team of scientists found that groups of living organisms that move through squirming exhibit distinct collective properties depending on their velocities and bottom-heaviness. These characteristics can lead to intriguing emergent behaviors, such as clusters forming at the bottom or top of a container.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateMay 28, 2020

ALMA spots twinkling heart of Milky Way

Astronomers using ALMA have spotted quasi-periodic flickers in millimeter-waves from the center of the Milky Way, suggesting a rotating radio spot circling a supermassive black hole. The findings provide insight into space-time with extreme gravity and may shed light on the behavior of gas around the black hole.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateMay 22, 2020