Galactic hydrogen filaments represent one of the fundamental components of cosmic structure, drawing a complex network that shapes the visible universe. These gigantic chains of baryonic matter, primarily composed of neutral hydrogen clouds, play a crucial role in the intergalactic medium by orchestrating galaxy formation and the evolution of galaxy clusters. Thanks to recent advances … Read more
The X binary systems captivate attention due to their exceptional ability to emit powerful X-rays, produced by complex cosmic interactions between binary stars. These stellar pairs, consisting of a regular star and a compact star such as a neutron star or a black hole, wonderfully illustrate the extreme and dynamic phenomena that shape our universe. … Read more
In brief: Accurate measurements and discrepancies in the Hubble constant: a challenge for modern cosmology The universe expansion is a reality observed for several decades, mathematically formalized by the Hubble-Lemaître law, which describes the linear relationship between the speed of galaxies moving away and their distance, with the Hubble constant (H0) as the proportionality factor. … Read more
Gravitational waves embody a major breakthrough in the understanding of the universe. These subtle oscillations of the fabric of spacetime, predicted over a century ago by Albert Einstein’s general relativity, resonate through the universe with imperceptible cosmic vibrations. Their detection has opened a new window onto extreme astrophysical phenomena, such as black hole mergers, which … Read more
In the vast universe, the rotation of galaxies continues to fascinate astronomers who seek to understand the mechanisms behind this fundamental movement. The orientation of galaxies, often perceived as random, actually reveals a more subtle organization. The alignment of galactic spins – the preferred direction in which galaxies rotate – has become a key area … Read more
Recent advances in fundamental physics shed light on a fascinating concept that goes beyond the simple perception of the three-dimensional universe: the existence of extra dimensions. These dimensions, invisible to the naked eye and conventional instruments, could radically transform our understanding of space-time and thus revolutionize the field of astronomy. At the heart of the … Read more
IN BRIEF Introduction to constellations and their importance in astronomy. Identification of easy constellations: Big Dipper, Orion, Cassiopeia. Using a sky chart for observation. Practical tips for starting astronomical observation. Applications and tools available to recognize stars. Steps to familiarize yourself with the night sky. Resources to deepen your knowledge and observation techniques. Discovering the … Read more
IN SHORT Variable stars: celestial bodies that show variations in brightness. Two main types: Cepheids and RR Lyrae stars. Periodic volume variations affecting brightness and spectrum. Essential for estimating astronomical distances. Constantly increasing cataloging, with a variety of characteristics. Used to determine stellar dynamics. Long-period variable stars: red supergiants with marked brightness variations. Interest in … Read more
IN BRIEF Dating methods used to establish the age of objects Carbon 14: the most widespread isotopic method Dendrochronology: dating by tree rings Archaeomagnetism: study of variations in the Earth’s magnetic field Optically Stimulated Luminescence Dating: measuring photons emitted by minerals Potassium-Argon: technique for dating ancient rocks Relative dating vs. absolute dating Use of paramagnetic … Read more
IN BRIEF Artificial Intelligence : a revolutionary tool to unlock the mysteries of the Universe. Applications in cosmology to understand dark energy. Numerical methods and simulations at the service of science. Use of machine learning for astronomical research. AI tools to predict the structure of the Universe. Collaboration between mathematics, physics, and AI for significant … Read more