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Parallel universes cross in Flatland

Scientists have discovered a way to modify the energy landscape of 2D materials by arranging them in a 3D configuration, creating parallel worlds with unique properties. This new arrangement, known as a nanomesh, has strong nonlinear optical properties and opens up possibilities for quantum computing and communication applications.

Machine learning accelerates cosmological simulations

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a technique using machine learning and high-performance computing to simulate complex universes in less than a day. The approach enables high-resolution cosmology simulations, advancing physics research and providing new insights into the universe's mysteries.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 4, 2021

Using exoplanets as dark matter detectors

Researchers propose using exoplanet temperatures as a new method for detecting dark matter. By analyzing the effect of dark matter on exoplanet temperatures, scientists hope to gain insights into this mysterious substance. The study suggests that exoplanets could be used to detect both light and dark matter.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 22, 2021

Seeing quadruple

The discovery of 12 quadruply imaged quasars using machine-learning techniques will help determine the expansion rate of the universe and address mysteries like dark matter. Quasars are extremely luminous cores powered by supermassive black holes, providing a way to probe the intermediate range of the universe.

Laser-driven experiments provide insights into the formation of the universe

Researchers have captured the time history of magnetic field growth in a lab setting using laser-driven experiments. The findings suggest that turbulent dynamo mechanism amplifies magnetic fields rapidly, exceeding theoretical expectations and potentially explaining the origin of large-scale fields in galaxy clusters.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

Christopher Tunnell wins NSF CAREER Award

Dr. Christopher Tunnell, a computational astroparticle physicist at Rice University, has been awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award to further his research on dark matter and other phenomena. The award will support a combined physics and computer science effort to detect rare particles and understand the universe.

The quantum advantage: a novel demonstration

Scientists have successfully demonstrated a quantum advantage by performing a verification task in seconds using a quantum machine, whereas the same task would take centuries for a conventional computer. The experiment used a complex algorithm and simple experimental photonics system, showcasing the potential of quantum computing.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 8, 2021

Student astronomer finds galactic missing matter

A student astronomer has developed a method to track down the Milky Way's missing matter using distant galaxies as 'locator pins'. The technique detects radio sources that have passed through a cold clump of gas, revealing a massive, invisible cloud about 10 light years from Earth.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 4, 2021

Multi-messenger astronomy offers new estimates of neutron star size and universe expansion

A new study using multi-messenger astronomy has estimated the radius of a typical neutron star to be around 11.75 kilometers and provided a novel calculation of the Hubble constant, which indicates the rate of universe expansion. The researchers' analysis combined gravitational-wave signals and electromagnetic emissions from neutron st...

Cosmic flashes come in all different sizes

Scientists have confirmed that magnetars, extreme stars with strong magnetic fields, generate fast radio bursts (FRBs). The discoveries were made using four European radio telescopes and provide new insights into the origins of FRBs. The research aims to pin down how these extreme stars create brief blasts of radiation.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Astronomy·DateNov 16, 2020

Astrophysics team lights the way for more accurate model of the universe

Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have developed a self-calibration method to remove contamination from gravitational lensing signals, allowing for more accurate measurements of key cosmological parameters. This breakthrough has significant implications for understanding dark energy and the structure of the universe.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateOct 19, 2020

Elements of surprise: neutron stars contribute little, but something's making gold, research finds

A new analysis of galaxy evolution finds that neutron star collisions do not create the quantity of chemical elements previously assumed. Instead, an entirely different sort of stellar phenomenon - unusual supernovae with strong magnetic fields - is responsible for making most of the heavy elements, including gold.

Zooming in on dark matter

The study found that small dark matter haloes have a similar internal structure to larger ones, with smaller clumps orbiting in their outer regions. This could help identify these small objects individually or collectively through future gamma-ray observatories.

SourceDurham University·JournalNature·DateSep 2, 2020

Zooming in on dark matter

A recent study published in Nature has zoomed in on dark matter haloes of varying masses, revealing a surprising similarity in their internal structure. The research team used supercomputers to simulate the evolution of the universe and found that even small haloes have dense centers and spread-out outer regions.

How stars form in the smallest galaxies

Researchers have found that dormant small galaxies can slowly accumulate gas over billions of years, allowing for the formation of new stars. The study's findings shed light on the mysterious process of star formation in dwarf galaxies, providing insights into astrophysical processes.

SourceLund University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 12, 2020