Articles tagged with Observational Astronomy
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Scientists have observed a continuously changing feature in Saturn's innermost ring, the D ring, which indicates a recent comet or asteroid collision. The findings suggest that Saturn's rings are not eternal but dynamic systems that can change over time.
Astronomers have used a pair of pulsars to show that general relativity is correct within 0.05% accuracy, the most stringent limit to date. The double-pulsar system provides independent tests of general relativity and its predictions, including gravitational waves and time dilation.
Researchers propose that Enceladus' reorientation could be caused by a low-density blob beneath its surface, leading to a hot spot at the pole and explaining the moon's striking surface features. The study suggests testable predictions for future observations of Enceladus.
Scientists embark on an Arctic trek with sled dogs to collect snow samples and validate satellite observations. The goal is to improve understanding of global snow cover and its impact on water resources, particularly in the American West where melting snow supplies 70% of western states' water supply.
The MIRAGE project, led by NCAR, aims to quantify air pollution emitted by Mexico City from multiple perspectives. Researchers will use aircraft, ground-based instruments, and satellite observations to gather data on the pollutants' life cycle, including their transformation by chemical reactions and interaction with other sources.
Researchers used a new atmospheric model to quantify man-made and natural influences on the stratosphere's cooling trend over the past 25 years. The study suggests that increasing greenhouse gases will likely cool the stratosphere in the next century, with important implications for ozone hole recovery.
Astronomers have confirmed the presence of two new moons around Pluto, provisionally designated S/2005 P 1 and S/2005 P 2. The new discoveries were made possible by the exceptional resolution of the Hubble Space Telescope, which revealed the small moons' orbits with similarities to Charon's.
The Invasive Species Forecasting System (ISFS) uses NASA satellite data to predict and manage the spread of invasive plant species like saltcedar, which is damaging water supplies. Land managers can generate color-coded maps to help combat the spread of these species.
Astronomers have found a small planet with a mass about five times that of Earth, orbiting a small star near the center of the galaxy. The discovery suggests there are many other small planets in habitable zones, where temperatures are moderate enough for liquid water to appear on their surfaces.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered 'light echoes' of ancient supernovae, providing a unique opportunity to study the original light from these events. This finding sheds new light on our understanding of the universe and its elements.
Researchers discovered a link between GPS data and satellite images of the plasmasphere, allowing them to understand the ionosphere-thermosphere-magnetosphere as a coupled system. The study provides a new understanding of space storms and their impact on Earth's upper atmosphere.
Astronomers have released images of galaxy NGC 1097, revealing the channelling process of matter toward its central supermassive black hole. The new images show over 300 regions of star formation in a prominent ring surrounding the nucleus.
New findings from the Rosetta spacecraft suggest comets are composed primarily of dust held together by ice, contradicting the long-held 'dirty snowball' hypothesis. Cometary nuclei like Comet 9P/Tempel 1 exhibit dynamic and volatile properties, with impacts triggering outbursts of dust and gas.
A team of astronomers has discovered a large population of galaxies formed between 9 and 12 billion years ago, contradicting previous estimates that the Universe had not yet formed many stars in the first billion years. The findings suggest that stars formed two to three times faster than previously thought.
Astronomers have discovered a triple asteroid system, with minor planet 87 Sylvia and its twin moons Romulus and Remus. The asteroids were found using the NACO instrument at ESO's Very Large Telescope Array in Chile, revealing details about their orbits and composition.
Researchers simulate sensor web technique to track pollution transport and improve forecast accuracy. The technology coordinates observations from satellites, airborne instruments, and ground-based stations to provide alerts days in advance for vulnerable populations.
Astronomers have detected an invisible galaxy made mostly of dark matter for the first time using radio telescopes. The discovery was made by a British-led team and confirmed with the Arecibo telescope in Puerto Rico.
The partnership aims to utilize NASA satellite data to help manage forest resources in Acadia National Park. NPS and NASA will share information and collaborate on training, technical support, and education to benefit each other's goals.
Astronomers use Hubble's Near Infrared Camera and Multi-Object Spectrometer to observe a faint companion object orbiting a relatively bright young brown dwarf star. The observations provide strong evidence for the existence of an extrasolar planet, which is estimated to be about five times the mass of Jupiter.
Astronomers have discovered a candidate planetary companion to a relatively bright young brown dwarf star located 225 light-years away in the southern constellation Hydra. The object, detected by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope, is estimated to be about five times the mass of Jupiter and orbits its host at a 99% confidence level.
The Gemini Observatory has released three striking new images showcasing the 'Fireworks Galaxy', an interacting galaxy pair, and an extremely active stellar nursery. These images highlight the prolific galaxy NGC 6946, which is ablaze with galactic fireworks fueled by the births and deaths of multitudes of brilliant, massive stars.
The Huygens probe will encounter a mysterious surface of seven-kilometer-high ice mountains and liquid methane seas. Scientists expect the Cassini spacecraft to improve the current sketchy picture of Titan's surface.
Climate scientists attribute observed global warming to a combination of natural and human activities, but removing long-term solar cycles from models reveals minimal impact on early 20th century warming, suggesting other influences may play a greater role.
Scientists found that removing long-term solar cycles from global climate models takes away about a tenth of a degree Celsius of early 20th century warming, suggesting other influences may play a greater role than the Sun's. The study adds to the puzzle of understanding complex relationships between the Sun and climate.
Researchers analyzed tiny meteorite grains to determine the formation of aluminum oxide in AGB stars. The study found that both crystalline and amorphous forms are produced, clarifying observations and refining condensation modeling.
The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) will be decommissioned by NASA, marking the end of its outstanding contribution to Earth observations. TRMM's unique precipitation observations have provided unprecedented insights into rainfall-producing cloud systems over tropical land masses and oceans.
The MOST team discovered that star Procyon shows no pulsations, overturning 20 years of previous research and forcing future space missions to revise their strategies. The tiny satellite measured brightness variations more precisely than any other instrument, revealing a new perspective on the stars in our Galactic backyard.
Computer models show Io's volcanic eruptions vaporize sodium, potassium, silicon, and iron gases into its atmosphere. Researchers found single-atom and molecular forms of these elements, which could lead to unusual gas formations.
Researchers used the MIDI instrument in the VLTI Laboratory to study the central region of active galaxy NGC 1068. They confirmed the presence of a torus-shaped structure of gas and dust around the black hole, with a hot inner zone and a cooler outer region.
New neutrino research has significant implications for technological advancements and our understanding of the universe. The study aims to improve techniques for making clean materials and detect clandestine nuclear weapons tests, while also shedding light on the role of neutrinos in the early universe and star explosions.
Researchers detected ClOOCl in the polar stratosphere, triggering ozone destruction through three-step process. The discovery was made during a joint US-European science mission using NASA's ER-2 aircraft.
This AGU journal features research on space weather substorms, with a possible explanation for large magnetic fluctuations during the onset of a space weather substorm. Additionally, high frequency sea ice motion may affect Arctic dynamics, while tropical drought regions in global warming and El Nino teleconnections are also explored.
NASA satellites provide daily, high-quality data on crop productivity, surface temperature and snow cover to support decision-making for FAS analysts. The data helps monitor natural disasters' impact on crops and assess water levels in lakes and reservoirs.
New research from NASA scientists suggests emissions of black soot alter the way sunlight reflects off snow, contributing to climate change. The study found that soot in areas with snow and ice may play a significant role in warming the world's climate, especially when it becomes more concentrated on melting surfaces.
Astronomers have successfully detected and measured the nitrogen-15 isotope in Comet LINEAR, revealing an isotopic abundance ratio of 140 ± 30. This finding provides crucial information about the composition of comets and their connection to heavier organic molecules, which are essential for life on Earth.
Astronomers have discovered four massive stellar clusters with stars as massive as 120 solar masses in the Milky Way's W49 molecular cloud. This reveals the true sources of enormous energy powering a giant HII region, solving decades of speculation.
The new AO76 system, developed by the National Optical Astronomy Observatory in New Mexico, produces sharper images under worse seeing conditions than the previous AO24 system. This allows existing solar telescopes to produce higher resolution images and greatly improve their scientific output.
Researchers observed mass-losing stars in cataclysmic variables and found most secondary stars lack carbon and other elements. The unusual abundance patterns suggest stellar material formed through CNO burning, a process thought to occur in high-mass stars.
Researchers have spotted a spectacular 'bull's eye' effect in a star explosion, revealing new insights into the object's distance and characteristics. The discovery, led by Howard Bond of the Space Telescope Science Institute, used NASA Hubble Space Telescope images to calculate the star's distance from Earth at least 20,000 light years.
Researchers conclude dark energy is the dominant form of energy in the universe, contradicting observations of distant supernovae. The accelerating expansion of the universe can be explained by the presence of negative pressure in a vacuum, supporting the existence of dark energy.
The DARE concept uses balloons with a StratoSail device to control their path in strong atmospheric winds, enabling pole-to-pole exploration of Venus and Titan's atmospheres and targeted observations of Mars and Jupiter's Great Red Spot.
Researchers develop waveform templates to analyze gravity wave signals, enabling detection of neutron star collapses and black hole collisions. Gravity waves offer a window to the universe carrying different information than electromagnetic waves.
A recent Asian dust storm triggered a massive bloom of phytoplankton in the North Pacific, suggesting that wind-blown iron from terrestrial dust can stimulate plankton growth. This observation challenges the long-held 'iron hypothesis,' which proposed that adding iron to ocean waters could offset global warming.
Researchers observed supernova remnants in two neighboring galaxies, providing new insight into gas shocked by blast waves and material structure between stars. The findings expand our understanding of a star's long-term evolution and how elements are redistributed into interstellar space.
The Far-Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE) has returned to full-time science operations after a guidance system fix. Scientists and engineers used electromagnets to push and pull on the Earth's magnetic field, achieving sub-arcsecond pointing stability and unlocking nearly half the sky for observations.
Researchers combined infrared images with Hubble data to study ancient galaxies, including those similar to the Milky Way. The team identified over 100 billion stars in some galaxies, offering insights into their age, distance, and formation.
Researchers at the University of Illinois and Wisconsin detected a Y-shaped ionized gas filament near the Big Dipper, believed to be produced by radiation from a white dwarf or low-luminosity source. The object's properties differ from other examples, making it difficult to identify its origin.
NGC 3310 is forming clusters of new stars at a prodigious rate, with hundreds of individual young, luminous stars visible throughout the galaxy. The wide range of cluster ages suggests that the starbursting can continue for an extended interval, once triggered.
Researchers have found evidence of an extreme warp in the stellar disk of the Andromeda Galaxy, which may be the most extreme case of a warped spiral galaxy. The findings suggest that interactions between Andromeda and its satellite galaxies could be responsible for the warp.
Astronomers have discovered intriguing patterns of star motion and composition that suggest a remnant of a smaller galaxy consumed by the Milky Way billions of years ago. The study, part of the 2dF Old Stellar Population Survey, aims to investigate the galactic merger that formed the Milky Way's thick disk.
The Hubble Space Telescope observed Comet Linear experiencing a violent eruption, spewing dust into space and increasing its brightness. The team believes this event may indicate that similar 'Mount Saint Helens' outbursts occur frequently on comets.
A study reveals that nearly 900 potentially hazardous asteroids are hurtling towards Earth, with some passing within a few moon distances every year. The researchers estimate that only 40% of kilometer-or-larger asteroids have been discovered, leaving the remaining 60% potentially difficult to find.
Astronomers use Chandra to study a cloud of gas in NGC 4151, blown away from the black hole at incredible velocities. The observation shows how massive black holes disrupt their surroundings over vast distances.
A 6.5m telescope mirror is transported from the US to Chile's Atacama Desert, renowned for its stable and dry atmosphere, to conduct astronomical observations. The mirror will be installed as part of the Magellan Twin Telescope project at the Las Campanas Observatory, enabling studies of the Milky Way, star formation, and the universe.
Amateur astronomers reported brief changes on the Moon's surface, but their claims were never confirmed until now. A team of scientists has found evidence supporting these observations using satellite data from the Clementine mission.
17-year-old Sasha Jones won a contest to name the first Earth Observing System satellite, Terra, which will study global climatic changes. The satellite's launch is set for July 15, 1999, and will enable new research into the planet's climate system.
University of Michigan astronomers have detected the cool infrared signature of dust grains and silicates within superheated gas in the center of ancient elliptical galaxies. The discovery could represent the first direct observation of how mass lost by aging stars evolves in a hot, exotic environment.
Scientists observed unusual transpolar auroral arcs during a geomagnetic storm in January 1997, contradicting existing models of the magnetosphere. The phenomenon was caused by energy propagating towards the dayside along the arc, indicating dynamic events in the magnetosphere.
A new study by Ohio State University researcher Jay Frogel warns that El Niño events can change atmospheric data by up to 2 percent, affecting precise astronomical measurements. This alteration occurs due to the increased water content in the atmosphere during El Niño events.
Astronomers worldwide are gathering data from comet Hale-Bopp with a festival of observations, revealing secrets about comets' composition and behavior. The raw material will construct the most intricate portrait of a comet to date, providing insights into the early solar system.