Astronomical Spectroscopy
Articles tagged with Astronomical Spectroscopy
Astronomers explore the surface composition of a nearby super-earth
The team analyzed LHS 3844 b's infrared radiation, finding it doesn't match Earth-like silicate-rich minerals. Instead, the spectrum suggests a dark, rocky surface composed of basaltic or magmatic minerals, possibly with a recently active geological history.
First light for PoET: shining (sun)light on exoplanet research
The Paranal solar ESPRESSO Telescope (PoET) has made its first observations, aiming to understand how stellar activity affects the detection of exoplanets. PoET uses the Sun's light to analyze distant star spectra and remove 'noise' that can mask planetary signals.
Found: Most pristine star in the universe
Astronomers have identified the most pristine star in the known universe, SDSS J0715-7334, with a metal content of less than 0.005%. This ancient immigrant was born about 80,000 light-years from Earth and has been pulled into the Milky Way galaxy over time.
A single plate captures multiple frequencies at once
Researchers developed a new 'frequency-multiplexed elastic metasurface' that can precisely direct elastic waves at distinct frequencies onto different locations, enhancing signal intensity by up to 48 times. This technology breaks the conventional belief that one structure can perform only one function.
Mysterious iron ‘bar’ discovered in famous nebula
A team of astronomers at Cardiff University and UCL discovered a mysterious bar-shaped cloud of iron atoms inside the Ring Nebula, which is roughly 500 times longer than Pluto's orbit. The discovery was made using a new instrument on the William Herschel Telescope, allowing for unprecedented detail in observations of the nebula.
Mysterious iron ‘bar’ discovered in famous nebula
A team of astronomers using the WEAVE instrument discovered a bar-shaped cloud of iron atoms inside the iconic Ring Nebula. The iron bar is roughly 500 times longer than Pluto's orbit and has a mass comparable to Mars, raising questions about its formation and composition.
Pitt student finds familiar structure just 2 billion years after the Big Bang
A team led by Pitt graduate student Daniel Ivanov has discovered a barred spiral galaxy, COSMOS-74706, at a redshift of 11.5 billion years ago, marking the earliest observed instance of this structure type. This finding helps constrain the timeframe for bar formation in the universe.
Scientists discover ‘platypus galaxies’ in the early universe
Researchers identified nine objects with characteristics of stars and galaxies, sparking new questions about the cosmos. These 'platypus galaxies' have narrow emission lines indicative of active star formation, defying expectations.
Rare image of Tatooine-like planet is closest to its twin stars yet
Astronomers at Northwestern University have directly imaged a Tatooine-like exoplanet orbiting two suns, revealing unique insights into how planets form around multiple stars. The discovery provides an unprecedented look at the complex dynamics of binary systems and offers new opportunities to test theories of planet formation.
Philanthropic partnerships fund next-generation instruments for mid-sized telescopes
Two new research projects will bring advanced tools to Lick and McDonald Observatories, studying planet and star formation. The programs aim to extend the scientific reach of mid-sized telescopes, delivering new insights and demonstrating technologies for larger observatories.
Unique shape of star’s explosion revealed just a day after detection
Astronomers have observed the unique shape of a supernova explosion in unprecedented detail using ESO's VLT. The shape, resembling an olive, was revealed through spectropolarimetry, which allows for the measurement of polarisation and inference of object geometry.
A new AI-powered method to automate material analysis and design
A new AI-based approach analyzes XAS data to identify material properties, providing objective insights for rational material design. The method achieved high accuracy and revealed meaningful variations in electronic states.
UMass researchers help ID new mineral on Mars, providing insight on the Red Planet’s potential to have supported life
Researchers from UMass Amherst identified a unique mineral on Mars, ferric hydroxysulfate, which provides clues about the Martian environment and history. The mineral was formed at high temperatures in an acidic environment and is believed to have been created via geothermal heat.
Hungry star is eating its cosmic twin at rate never seen before
Astronomers discovered a greedy white dwarf star consuming its closest celestial companion at an unprecedented rate. The study found that the super-dense white dwarf is burning brightly due to the mass transfer between the two stars, potentially leading to a massive explosion visible from Earth.
SwRI study supports theory that asteroids Bennu and Ryugu are part of the Polana family
A Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) review of data collected from near-Earth asteroids Bennu and Ryugu supports the hypothesis that they were originally part of the Polana collisional family. The study found similarities in their near-infrared spectrum, suggesting a common origin.
Early galaxies — or something else? Mizzou scientists uncover mysterious objects in the universe
Researchers used infrared images to spot bright objects, then applied the 'dropout' technique to confirm their nature. The study could challenge current ideas about galaxy formation in the early universe if confirmed.
The evolution of life may have its origins in outer space
Complex organic molecules, precursors to life's building blocks, have been found in a planet-forming disc around the outbursting protostar V883 Orionis. This discovery supports the idea that life's seeds are assembled in space and are widespread.
NASA, JAXA XRISM satellite X-rays Milky Way’s sulfur
Researchers detected sulfur in both gas and solid phases using data from the XRISM spacecraft, providing unprecedented insight into its presence in the universe. The findings are based on measurements of X-rays from two binary star systems and suggest that sulfur can easily change between these forms.
CARMENES data: Earth-like planets especially common around low-mass stars
A recent study led by Heidelberg University astronomers has found that Earth-like planets are more common than previously thought around low-mass stars. The research team identified four new exoplanets, with the largest one having a mass 14 times greater than Earth and orbiting its host star in approximately 3.3 years.
Webb reveals the origin of the ultra-hot exoplanet WASP-121b
Researchers detected atmospheric methane and silicon monoxide on WASP-121b, suggesting it accumulated most of its gas in a cold region before becoming an ultra-hot giant planet. The team proposes that strong vertical winds on the nightside replenish methane gas to maintain its high abundance.
Catching a runaway star ejected from a globular cluster by an intermediate-mass black hole
Researchers found a high-velocity star ejected from a globular cluster at an extreme velocity of nearly 550 km/s, suggesting the presence of an intermediate-mass black hole. The star's similarities with the cluster's chemical composition and age provide strong evidence for the IMBH's existence.
New DESI results: Evidence mounts for evolving dark energy
The analysis of DESI data, combined with other measurements, suggests that dark energy's impact may be weakening over time. Researchers confirm previous findings of evolving dark energy but acknowledge the need for further evidence to reach statistical significance.
“Sloshing” from celestial collisions solves mystery of how galactic clusters stay hot
Researchers have discovered flows of hot gas in the Centaurus Cluster core, shedding light on how galactic clusters stay hot through 'sloshing' caused by collisions. This solves the longstanding mystery of cluster core heating and provides new insights into the formation and evolution of galactic clusters.
New research makes strongest case yet for why Mars is red
A recent study by an international team of researchers suggests that the iron oxide mineral ferrihydrite is responsible for Mars' distinctive red hue. The researchers combined observational data with laboratory experiments to create Martian dust that matched known spectral data, indicating a water-rich environment in the past.
UMD astronomer prepares for upcoming NASA mission to investigate mysterious moon domes
The Lunar-VISE project aims to investigate the enigmatic Gruithuisen Domes on the moon's surface, studying their silica-rich volcanic origins and ancient lava flows. With a 2028 launch date, scientists hope to reconstruct the moon's history from formation to its current state.
NASA selects Firefly Aerospace to deliver UCF’s Lunar-VISE payload to the moon
NASA has partnered with Firefly Aerospace to deliver UCF's Lunar Vulkan Imaging and Spectroscopy Explorer (Lunar-VISE) payload to the Moon's Gruithuisen Domes. The mission aims to investigate the mysterious silica-rich volcanic features and gather data on lunar regolith for future exploration.
2 MILLION mph galaxy smash-up seen in unprecedented detail
Astronomers have observed a massive galaxy collision sparked by a speeding galaxy traveling at 2 million mph. The collision has been seen in unprecedented detail using the William Herschel Telescope Enhanced Area Velocity Explorer (WEAVE) wide-field spectrograph.
SwRI-led team proposes new solar composition ratios that could reconcile longstanding questions
A Southwest Research Institute-led team developed a revised solar composition that potentially reconciles spectroscopy and helioseismology measurements for the first time. The new solar composition suggests higher levels of carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen in the Sun than previously thought.
NASA telescopes discover brown dwarf protoplanetary disks in the Orion Nebula
A new study using NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has confirmed the presence of proplyds around brown dwarfs in the Orion Nebula. The team discovered 20 cool objects that are too small and cool to undergo hydrogen fusion, with two faint proplyds detected by Hubble previously.
Winds of change: James Webb Space Telescope reveals elusive details in young star systems
A team of astronomers discovered new insights into the forces that shape protoplanetary disks using the James Webb Space Telescope. They traced disk winds in unprecedented detail, revealing an intricate structure and a pronounced central hole inside each cone-shaped envelope of winds.
Scientists discover planet orbiting closest single star to our Sun
Astronomers have discovered an exoplanet orbiting Barnard's star, located six light-years away, which has at least half the mass of Venus and orbits its star in just over three Earth days. The discovery was made using ESO's VLT and confirms the existence of a new exoplanet candidate, while also hinting at the presence of three more.
First data from XRISM space mission provides new perspective on supermassive black holes
The XRISM space mission is providing unprecedented insights into the galactic neighborhoods of supermassive black holes. The mission's data confirms decades-old speculation about these regions, revealing complex structures and unexpected clues about their environment.
Dark matter seen through a forest
Researchers used hydrogen to track dark matter's presence in the universe, revealing a tension between observations and theoretical predictions. The findings suggest that an unknown particle or new physics may be responsible for this discrepancy.
Cosmic wrestling match
A team led by Jamie McCullough and Daniel Grün has analyzed the largest dataset to date, shedding light on what the color of various galaxies says about their true distance. The results make it possible to statistically determine the true distance of each galaxy observed in images taken by Euclid or the Dark Energy Survey.
High-precision measurements challenge our understanding of Cepheids
A new dataset from the VELOCE project has collected over 18,000 high-precision measurements of Cepheid radial velocities, providing insights into the structure and evolution of these stars. The data reveal complex patterns in pulsations that cannot be explained by traditional models, suggesting intricate processes within the stars.
Mysterious mini-Neptunes
Four transiting short-period mini-Neptunes orbiting red dwarfs have been discovered, with radii 2-3 times that of Earth and orbital periods under eight days. Their interiors likely contain volatiles and atmospheres, suggesting non-rocky composition.
Planet-forming disks around very low-mass stars are different
The MIRI Mid-INfrared Disk Survey (MINDS) discovered a large variety of carbon-rich gases in the disk surrounding a very low-mass star. This finding suggests that rocky planets with Earth-like characteristics may form more efficiently than Jupiter-like gas giants in such disks.
Glimpses of a volcanic world: New telescope images of Jupiter's moon Io rival those from spacecraft
Researchers captured a volcanic event on Io using the Large Binocular Telescope's SHARK-VIS instrument, achieving higher resolution than ever before with Earth-based observations. The images reveal surface details equivalent to taking a picture of a dime-sized object from 100 miles away.
Earth twin or evil twin
Astronomers have discovered a planet called Gliese 12 b, which is an 'evil twin' of Earth with conditions similar to Venus. The planet orbits its star in just 12.8 days and receives 1.6 times more radiation than Earth.
UCF student’s comparative analysis of primitive asteroids provides context for further research, future NASA missions
A UCF student's study of 25 members of the Erigone family of primitive asteroids has provided context for further research into the solar system's history. The data analysis suggests that these asteroids carry traces of their origins and may have delivered water to Earth, with implications for future NASA missions.
Real-time detection of infectious disease viruses by searching for molecular fingerprinting
Researchers developed a technology to detect infectious disease viruses in real-time using a single nano-spectroscopic sensor. The system uses molecular fingerprinting and can detect specific substances with tailored detection, enabling rapid and precise analysis.
UTSA researchers reveal faint features in galaxy NGC 5728 though JWST image techniques
Researchers at UTSA's Department of Physics and Astronomy have used deconvolution algorithms to enhance images of galaxy NGC 5728 obtained by the James Webb Space Telescope. The study reveals a faint extended feature that could be part of an outflow from a supermassive black hole interacting with the host galaxy.
Remarkably detailed view of “teenage galaxies” from just 2 to 3 billion years after the Big Bang revealed by JWST
Astronomers using the JWST have created the deepest spectrum of a distant galaxy ever seen, revealing the presence of eight distinct elements including nickel. The study helps scientists understand how galaxies mature and evolve over time, with surprising findings on the chemical composition of ancient galaxies.
Second-most distant galaxy discovered using James Webb Space Telescope
Researchers confirmed the distance of two galaxies in Pandora's Cluster, which are larger than other galaxies at such extreme distances. The ancient galaxies offer insights into how the earliest galaxies might have formed and provide a window into the past.
Did life exist on Mars? Other planets? With AI's help, we may know soon
Scientists have discovered a simple test for signs of past or present life on other planets, using artificial intelligence to distinguish between biological and abiotic samples with high accuracy. The method has the potential to revolutionize the search for extraterrestrial life and deepen our understanding of Earth's earliest life.
New insights into the atmosphere and star of an exoplanet
Researchers used the James Webb Space Telescope to observe TRAPPIST-1 b, finding strong stellar contamination in its transmission spectra. The team discovered that stellar activity can create 'ghost signals' that may fool observers into thinking they have detected specific molecules in the exoplanet's atmosphere.
Scientists reveal marvellous x-ray mask absorber in the active galaxy NGC 6814
Researchers reveal a partially covering 'Compton-thick' absorption component in the eclipsing cloud of NGC 6814. The team found that the occultation absorber was clumpy and consisted of many small clouds, similar to debris stripped from a comet.
When ET calls, can we be sure we're not being spoofed?
Researchers at Breakthrough Listen project have devised a new technique for finding and vetting possible radio signals from other civilizations. The technique eliminates the possibility of signal being mere radio interference from Earth, boosting confidence in future detection of alien life.
A glimpse into the very first processes that could have formed life on Earth
Researchers have discovered the reaction pathway of urea molecules after ionization, providing insight into the formation of life on Earth. The study uses X-ray spectroscopy to investigate chemical reactions in liquids at the femtosecond level, enabling scientists to observe molecular processes in real time.
DESI data sheds more light on 3D map of cosmos, study of universe
The latest DESI data release provides a precise 3D map of the universe with high certainty. The data also sheds new light on cosmic acceleration and the nature of gravity at large scales.
Researchers discover chemical evidence for pair-instability supernova from a very massive first star
A new study has identified a chemically peculiar star in the Galactic halo as clear evidence of the existence of pair-instability supernovae (PISNe) from very massive first stars. The star's low sodium and cobalt abundances are consistent with predictions for primordial PISN from first-generation stars with 260 solar masses.
The ultra-fast space winds that shape the evolution of galaxies
An international research team explores ultra-fast gas emissions from active galactic nuclei, which significantly change galaxy ecosystems. The study confirms the existence of these powerful emissions and their role in regulating star formation.
James Webb Space Telescope images challenge theories of how universe evolved
The James Webb Space Telescope has observed six galaxies that defy the standard model of cosmology, with masses billions of times that of our sun. These findings suggest alternative theories on galaxy formation and expansion rates shortly after the Big Bang.
Dark order in the universe
A team of scientists from Kyoto University has confirmed that galaxy alignments can be a powerful probe for dark matter and dark energy. The analysis of 1.2 million galaxy observations verified general theory of relativity at vast spatial scales, providing strong evidence for gravity's role in shaping the universe.
UTSA astrophysicist leads international team in discovery of new exoplanet outside Earth’s solar system
A UTSA-led research team has discovered a new exoplanet using indirect methods. The exoplanet, HIP 99770 b, is about 14 to 16 times the mass of Jupiter and orbits a nearly twice-as-massive star. This breakthrough opens a new avenue for scientists to discover and characterize exoplanets.
HETDEX reveals galaxy gold mine in first large survey
Astronomers have cataloged over 51,863 Lyman-alpha-emitting galaxies, 123,891 star-forming galaxies, and 4,976 active galactic nuclei using HETDEX's spectroscopic data. The survey is a non-targeted, moon-sized survey that collects spectra from 35,000 fiber optic cables, providing a unique dataset for future galaxy mapping.
Stellar initial mass function varies with metallicity and age of stars
Researchers found that the stellar initial mass function varies with metallicity and age of stars, affecting galaxy formation and chemical enrichment estimates. The study used LAMOST telescope data to count red dwarf stars and measure their metallicity, revealing a variable abundance of low-mass stars in the Milky Way.
Astronomers report most distant known galaxies, detected and confirmed by JWST
Four early galaxies have been confirmed by spectroscopic observations from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), with two of them being the most distant galaxies to date. The galaxies are estimated to be around 13.4 billion years old, dating back to less than 400 million years after the Big Bang.
How the ‘hell planet’ got so hot
Researchers discovered that 55 Cnc e orbits its star along the equator, unlike other planets in the system. This unique orbit likely formed when the planet fell toward its star over time, resulting in a scorching surface and interior with possible diamond formation.