Cosmology

Scientists led by Fumihiro Naokawa have developed a new method to measure cosmic birefringence more precisely, a subtle rotation in the polarization of the cosmic microwave background. Their analysis indicates the birefringence angle may exceed the earlier estimate of 0.3 degrees due to phase ambiguity. The findings, published in Physical Review Letters, could aid in probing new physics related to dark matter and dark energy.

17 Mwezi wa tatu, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Astronomers have identified a bright supernova from over 10 billion years ago, its light gravitationally lensed into multiple images by a foreground galaxy. This unique observation allows simultaneous views of different stages of the explosion. The time delays between images could reveal details about the universe's expansion rate and dark energy.

Researchers at the Perimeter Institute have created a new computational tool to model self-interacting dark matter, addressing a gap in previous simulations. This innovation allows for faster and more accurate studies of how such dark matter influences galaxy formation. The work, published in Physical Review Letters, could reveal insights into cosmic structures and black hole origins.

17 Mwezi wa kwanza, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope have detected the light from a massive star that exploded about a billion years after the universe's birth. This type II supernova, named SN Eos, offers insights into the early stellar populations during the cosmic dark ages. The finding marks the earliest such event confirmed through spectroscopy.