Recent discoveries on Mars

Les découvertes récentes sur Mars

IN BRIEF The rover Curiosity discovered the presence of sulfates on Mars, indicating an environment conducive to life. Pure sulfur was identified for the first time, enriching our knowledge of the red planet. A study revealed fossil evidence of a cyclic climate, similar to that of Earth. Scientists discovered a volcano with an impressive height … Read more

Spiral galaxies: characteristics and mysteries

Les galaxies spirales : caractéristiques et mystères

IN BRIEF Spiral galaxies: grouping of hundreds of billions of stars Structure in the shape of a disk and central bulge Formed by the collapse of hydrogen and helium clouds Spiral arms influenced by giant molecular clouds Notable examples like the Milky Way and the Andromeda Galaxy Variety of shapes: spiral, elliptical, barred, and irregular … Read more

The role of black holes in the universe

Le rôle des trous noirs dans l'univers

IN BRIEF Definition: Celestial objects with intense gravitational fields. Composition: Very compact, high mass/size ratio. Role: Impact on the growth of galaxies. Event horizon: Limit beyond which nothing can escape. Time travel: The gravity of a black hole allows for time dilation. Environment: Influence on galactic structures and their dynamics. Scientific research: Studies conducted to … Read more

The different phases of a star’s life

Les différentes phases de la vie d'une étoile

IN SHORT Birth: Formation of a star from a nebula. Main sequence phase: Stabilization and fusion of hydrogen into helium. Red giant: Expansion as hydrogen depletes, the star becomes a red giant. Variable end: Depending on its mass, it can become a white dwarf or explode into a supernova. To die: Results in a supernova … Read more

Understanding star formation

Comprendre la formation des étoiles

IN BRIEF Star formation: Formation from the gravitational contraction of a nebula. Protostars: Clouds of gas that continue to contract to develop a star. Composition: Balls of gas mainly composed of hydrogen and helium. Process: Gravitational collapse of interstellar clouds. Stellar evolution: Life cycle encompassing the birth, evolution, and death of stars. Ongoing formation: About … Read more