Weak Gravitational Lensing Examines Universe’s Structure
The behaviour of the universe on the largest scales is being examined through weak gravitational lensing, a method that may confirm or challenge the long-standing Cosmological Principle. This principle, which asserts that the universe is both homogeneous and isotropic, underpins the Standard Model of Cosmology. If inconsistencies are detected, fundamental assumptions about the universe’s structure may need to be reconsidered. Observations from new space telescopes are being used to analyse potential deviations, with findings expected to provide deeper insights into cosmic evolution.
Cosmological Principle Under Investigation
According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmology and Astroparticle Physics (JCAP), a methodology has been proposed to test the universe’s isotropy using weak gravitational lensing data. This effect, predicted by general relativity, occurs when light from distant galaxies is subtly bent by massive cosmic structures. Researchers have suggested that anomalies in this lensing data may indicate deviations from the assumption that the universe has no preferred direction.
James Adam, an astrophysicist at the University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, and lead author of the study, told Phys.org that the principle suggests no true centre exists in the universe. The Standard Model of Cosmology, which relies on this assumption, has been supported by various observations. However, inconsistencies in cosmic expansion measurements and the cosmic microwave background have raised questions about possible anisotropies.
Observations from the Euclid Space Telescope, launched in 2023, are being analysed to detect possible anisotropies. Weak gravitational lensing alters galaxy shapes in a measurable way, allowing researchers to distinguish between two lensing components—E-mode and B-mode shear. In an isotropic universe, only E-modes should appear on large scales, while B-modes remain weak. A correlation between the two could indicate a non-uniform cosmic expansion.
Future Observations and Potential Impact
The study simulated how an anisotropic expansion would modify weak lensing signals, demonstrating that Euclid’s data could be used to detect such deviations. If verified, these findings could require adjustments to current cosmological models. Adam stated to Phys.org that extensive validation is necessary before any fundamental assumptions are reconsidered. Future telescopic data will be analysed to confirm whether these anomalies represent real physical phenomena or observational errors.
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A volcanic fissure has emerged near Grindavík on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula after a series of strong earthquakes. Lava has breached the town’s defence barriers. The Icelandic Meteorological Office (IMO) has warned that the fissure may continue to expand. The eruption began along the Sundhnúkur crater row early in the morning. By 9:45 a.m. local time, a fissure stretching nearly 1,200 metres had opened north of Grindavík. The crack is moving southward. Officials have raised the hazard level to the highest risk category.
Evacuations and Road Closures
According to the IMO, a second fissure has appeared inside Grindavík’s protective barriers. Authorities have evacuated the town along with the Blue Lagoon spa. Roads in and out of the area have been shut. Some residents have refused to leave. Local media outlet Visir has reported that emergency services remain on high alert.
Impact of Volcanic Gas
Weather forecasts indicate that volcanic gas will be carried northeastward towards Reykjavík. The capital is located about 40 kilometres away. The IMO has stated that by tomorrow morning, changing wind patterns may direct the gas southwest and eastward. Residents have been told to remain indoors as much as possible while closely monitoring air quality updates. Reykjanes Peninsula has experienced about 11 eruptions since 2021. Eight have occurred along the Sundhnúkur crater row since last year. Scientists continue to monitor the situation closely. Authorities have urged people to avoid the affected region.
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Astronomers have released new images of planets within the HR 8799 and 51 Eridani star systems. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) was used in a way that was different from standard procedures to achieve these results. Capturing direct images of exoplanets is challenging due to the brightness of host stars, which often obscures planetary details. To allow more light through, researchers adjusted JWST’s coronagraphs. This helps in enhancing the visibility of these distant worlds. This adjustment provided clearer insights into planetary atmospheres and their compositions.
Unconventional Use of JWST’s Coronagraphs
According to a study published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, lead author William Balmer, a Ph.D. candidate at Johns Hopkins University, explained to Space.com that a thinner part of the coronagraph mask was used. This allowed more starlight to diffract, reducing the risk of completely obscuring planets. Coronagraphs typically block starlight to reveal faint celestial bodies, but this modification provided a balance between removing excessive glare and preserving planetary details.
Key Discoveries and Observations
The JWST’s mid-infrared imaging captured HR 8799 at 4.6 microns. It is a wavelength that is mainly blocked by Earth’s atmosphere. Balmer stated that previous ground-based attempts had failed, demonstrating JWST’s stability in detecting exoplanets. Observations at 4.3 microns were also conducted. This revealed the presence of carbon dioxide. It is a very important step in determining the planetary formation processes. The detected carbon dioxide levels suggested that these planets likely formed through core accretion, gathering heavy elements over time.
Future Research and Expanding Studies
There are many research planned to study the four additional planetary systems. Balmer’s team has been allocated more JWST observation time to confirm whether similar gas giants formed through core accretion. This could offer more insights into the stability of planetary systems and potential habitability of smaller, unseen planets.
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