Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) have made a significant cosmic discovery involving a previously unknown object emitting both radio waves and X-rays, potentially revealing a new type of star. UWM physics professor David Kaplan, along with recent doctoral graduate Akash Anumarlapudi and an international team, identified ASKAP J1832-0911, classified as a long-period transient (LPT), a rare cosmic category first recognized in 2022.
Spotted in December 2023, this object presents unique opportunities for astronomers, marking the first time an object in this class has been detected via X-rays. Kaplan emphasized the importance of further research to understand this object and its potential counterparts in the universe. The techniques developed to identify LPTs could also inspire advancements in technology, influencing fields like computer intelligence and algorithm development for platforms such as TikTok and companies like Facebook and Google.
Kaplan explained the challenges of discovery, noting that the human eye can only perceive a small part of the universe, rendering many cosmic phenomena invisible without specialized instruments. The team utilized a radio telescope in a remote area of Australia to minimize interference and succeeded in identifying the object despite its rare "blinking" nature, which occurs only two minutes every 44 minutes.
Both Kaplan and Wang collaborated on the findings, leveraging data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and a Chinese research team’s simultaneous discovery. Their collective paper was published on May 28 in the journal Nature, showcasing the extraordinary aspect of scientific research often driven by serendipity. The project involved nearly 50 researchers from various countries, focusing on unveiling the mysteries of the cosmos while encouraging future generations to pursue scientific inquiry.
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