astronomy

IceCube Observatory Creates First Map of Milky Way Without Using Electromagnetic Waves

Published

1 year ago

November 2, 2023

Daily News Staff

Simulations on PSC’s Bridges-2 System Help Identify Signals in Huge Antarctic Ice Sheet Neutrino Detector

Newswise — We’ve learned a lot about the Universe from telescopes that are sensitive to anything from high-energy gamma waves to visible light to low-energy radio waves. But detecting such electromagnetic waves has limitations. Using PSC’s Bridges-2 system to simulate signals in their Antarctic IceCube detector, an international collaboration of scientists has now made the first map of the Milky Way galaxy using particles called neutrinos — the first map of a cosmic structure that didn’t depend on electromagnetic waves.

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

As our technology has progressed, we have devised new and more ingenious ways to observe and measure the Universe. Telescopes let us see objects in visible light; radio telescope dishes let us see new objects, as well as different behaviors by previously seen objects. Space launches allowed telescopes to have unprecedented clarity, as well as to see through opaque clouds using infrared light. Each of these leaps in technology literally opened new worlds for us. But they all detected electromagnetic waves, which can be distorted, absorbed, and generally scrambled by stuff in between us and what we’re trying to look at.

The first detection of gravitational waves in 2016 completely changed that. It represented a completely new way of looking. A year later, the IceCube Observatory in Antarctica made an equally momentous detection: the first pinpointing of an object out in space using weird particles called neutrinos. We now had three “messengers” to probe the universe with, each telling us different things about the objects that produced them.

“The original point [for IceCube] was this phenomenon called cosmic rays. [Scientists] discovered them over 120 years ago. But we had no idea where they were coming from … They don’t travel in straight lines. They’re being deflected so we can’t really point back to the sources. And then other messengers like gamma rays get absorbed [by] dust … So at the longest distances and highest energies anything from radio out to the gamma rays is being absorbed. It’s basically dark to us.” — Benedikt Riedel, University of Wisconsin

The IceCube Collaboration scored several firsts. First localization of a source of cosmic neutrinos. With colleagues using traditional telescopes, first co-detection of neutrinos and electromagnetic signals from a neutron star, pinpointing a source of cosmic rays. Simulations on PSC’s supercomputers helped them prepare for these discoveries. For their next step, the team wanted to take their revolutionary detector to a new level. They wanted to map the entire Milky Way galaxy. If successful, it would be the first cosmic map that didn’t depend on electromagnetic waves.

To make this happen, they once again turned to PSC, and the center’s Bridges-2 supercomputer.

HOW PSC HELPED

To understand how PSC’s NSF-funded, ACCESS-program-allocated Bridges-2 supported IceCube’s work, you first must understand a little about neutrinos.

Neutrinos have mass, but just barely. They also have no electrical charge. So unlike the particles that make up normal matter, they’re what physicists call “weakly interacting.” Neither gravity, electrical charge, nor magnetic fields have much of an effect on them. Because of that, they rarely interact with matter. Right now, 100 trillion neutrinos are passing through your body every second. But if you live to be 80 years old, on average only one of them will have interacted with the matter in your body.

The IceCube neutrino detector, then, had its work cut out for it. Because such an incredibly tiny fraction of neutrinos interacts with matter, the scientists who designed IceCube had to put an immense amount of matter in the detector. They hit on the idea of taking roughly a cubic kilometer of Antarctic ice and drilling it to insert hundreds of detectors, sensitive to the blue Cerenkov radiation light expected from these rare collisions.

First, though, they had to work through a bunch of challenges. In theory, a neutrino could create a line of light as it crashed through the ice, allowing the detectors’ positions and times of detection to trace that line back to the neutrino’s cosmic source. But sometimes, the detection is more of a sphere. The scientists would also have to screen out detections due to backgrounds coming from cosmic ray interactions in the atmosphere. They’d also need to tell the difference between cosmic neutrinos from the Milky Way and ones from other sources.

“We do a lot of simulations. We take an idealized image of our detector and we say, ‘This is the response of our detector to this particle in this interaction.’ We simulate a response and then we compare that with our data … Where Bridges-2 comes in is [that] it simulates the light moving through the south polar ice coming from the neutrino interactions on Bridges-2’s GPUs, and then the spare CPU cycles can be used for anything from data analysis to particle generation.” — Benedikt Riedel, University of Wisconsin

Benedikt Riedel at the University of Wisconsin, a leading scientist in the IceCube Collaboration, oversaw the use of several systems to simulate how imperfections in the ice would affect the patterns of detection. Bridges-2 proved particularly adept at these simulations. Its ability to offer both powerful central processing units, or CPUs, and late-model graphical processing units, or GPUs, helped untangle the crazy particle showers expected, to show how they related to neutrinos passing through the ice sheet. The collaborators also used the large Frontera supercomputer at the Texas Advanced Computing Center, PSC’s partner in the ACCESS network of NSF-funded supercomputers.

Thanks in part to Bridges-2, the team was able to identify what patterns of detector activations in IceCube came from real cosmic neutrinos. The result was a map of our galaxy — the first such map using a new messenger other than electromagnetic waves. While the map is admittedly crude compared with the exquisite maps produced by visible-light- and infrared-detecting space telescopes, it provides the first opportunity to compare what the galaxy looks like using independent messengers. The team reported their results in the prestigious journal Science in July 2023.

Journal Link: Science

Source: Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center

Author

Daily News Staff

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astronomy

Near-Earth Object 2024 UQ: A Close Call from the Cosmos

Published

4 days ago

November 10, 2024

Rod Washington

In a remarkable demonstration of both the unpredictability of space and the extraordinary capabilities of modern astronomical detection, a small asteroid, designated 2024 UQ, recently made headlines after it struck Earth just hours after being identified. This event, which took place on October 22, 2024, marks the third “imminent impactor” recorded this year, highlighting the continual and often daunting reality of near-Earth objects (NEOs).

Discovered by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) in Hawaii, a network of four telescopes dedicated to scanning the night sky for potential collision threats, 2024 UQ was small—measuring only about 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter. While news of an asteroid making contact with Earth can evoke concern, there was no cause for alarm in this instance. The diminutive size of the asteroid meant that it posed very little threat to anything on the ground. In fact, it burned up in the atmosphere over the Pacific Ocean near California, leaving no trace or damage.

However, the swift timeline of events raises critical questions about the effectiveness of our current monitoring systems. The impact occurred just two hours after the initial detection, which meant that by the time data was transmitted to the impact monitoring systems operated by the European Space Agency’s Near-Earth Object Coordination Center, the impact had already taken place. According to their November 2024 newsletter, the ATLAS survey had successfully obtained images identifying the asteroid on a collision trajectory, but due to its position near the edge of two adjacent observational fields, it was not recognized as a significant threat until it was too late.

This incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in tracking and predicting the paths of NEOs. While advancements in technology have undoubtedly improved our ability to detect these celestial objects, the circumstances surrounding 2024 UQ showcase the potential for oversights in our monitoring capabilities. Despite this event being minor in scale, it emphasizes the importance of continued investment in space surveillance systems, as well as international collaboration in tracking potential hazards lurking in the vast expanse of space.

@stmblog
🚀 Just hours after detection, asteroid 2024 UQ hit Earth! Measuring just 3 feet, it posed little risk. A reminder of the cosmos’ unpredictability! 🌌 ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

As we look forward, this close encounter reaffirms the need for vigilance in our exploration and observation of the cosmos. Each NEO presents an opportunity for learning and growth in our understanding of near-Earth dynamics. While 2024 UQ may have come and gone without incident, it certainly sparks curiosity about what lies ahead in our ongoing quest to safeguard our planet from the skies.

Reference Links:

Space.com: https://www.space.com/the-universe/asteroids/asteroid-that-hit-earth-hours-after-being-detected-was-3rd-imminent-impactor-of-2024

Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS): https://fallingstar.com/

The Danger from Asteroid Impact: https://fallingstar.com/danger.php

The science section of our news blog STM Daily News provides readers with captivating and up-to-date information on the latest scientific discoveries, breakthroughs, and innovations across various fields. We offer engaging and accessible content, ensuring that readers with different levels of scientific knowledge can stay informed. Whether it’s exploring advancements in medicine, astronomy, technology, or environmental sciences, our science section strives to shed light on the intriguing world of scientific exploration and its profound impact on our daily lives. From thought-provoking articles to informative interviews with experts in the field, STM Daily News Science offers a harmonious blend of factual reporting, analysis, and exploration, making it a go-to source for science enthusiasts and curious minds alike. https://stmdailynews.com/category/science/

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

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Author

Rod Washington

Rod: A creative force, blending words, images, and flavors. Blogger, writer, filmmaker, and photographer. Cooking enthusiast with a sci-fi vision. Passionate about his upcoming series and dedicated to TNC Network. Partnered with Rebecca Washington for a shared journey of love and art. View all posts

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Science

NASA Warns of Asteroid 2024 RV50’s Close Approach

Published

4 weeks ago

October 17, 2024

Charles Elliot

In a striking reminder of the cosmos’s potential threats, NASA has issued a warning about a stadium-sized asteroid hurtling towards Earth at an astonishing speed of 16 kilometers per second. Designated as 2024 RV50, this massive rock measures approximately 710 feet in width and is set to pass our planet on October 18, 2024.

What We Know About 2024 RV50

Discovered relatively recently on September 1, 2024 RV50 belongs to the Apollo group of asteroids, which are known for their orbits that bring them close to Earth. The asteroid takes about 769 Earth days—roughly 2.1 years—to complete its orbit around the Sun, traveling at distances that can reach up to 386 million kilometers from the Sun and coming as close as 105 million kilometers.

@stmblog
NASA warns that asteroid 2024 RV50, a stadium-sized rock, will pass Earth on Oct 18 at 16 km/s, but poses no threat! 🌌🪐 #NASA #Asteroid2024RV50 ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is diligently monitoring the asteroid’s trajectory using advanced tracking systems. According to current calculations, 2024 RV50 will pass Earth at a distance of approximately 7.42 million kilometers, which may seem far, but in astronomical terms, it’s a close encounter.

Potentially Hazardous?

While 2024 RV50 is classified as a potentially hazardous object due to its size and proximity to Earth, NASA assures us that it does not pose a threat. The risk of any significant impact is minimal, and the asteroid’s current trajectory suggests it will safely pass by our planet. For context, the next encounter with Earth is projected for October 18, 2064, when it will come even closer at a distance of about 5.67 million kilometers.

The Importance of Monitoring Asteroids

NASA’s ongoing efforts to track and monitor asteroids are crucial. These ancient celestial bodies provide insights into the early solar system, as they are remnants of the material that formed planets. Understanding their trajectories and potential impacts is essential for planetary defense, especially since history has shown that asteroid impacts have drastically altered Earth’s biosphere. The infamous asteroid that struck the Yucatán Peninsula 6.5 million years ago is believed to have contributed to the extinction of 75% of Earth’s species, including the dinosaurs.

Through advanced observation techniques and modeling, NASA aims to predict potential threats and develop mitigation strategies. Continuous monitoring of such objects not only helps safeguard our planet but also enriches our understanding of the solar system’s history.

As we prepare for the passing of 2024 RV50, it serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of our universe and the importance of vigilance in the face of potential cosmic threats. NASA’s commitment to tracking these celestial bodies ensures that we remain informed and prepared for whatever the universe may send our way.

JPL website tracking Asteroid 2024 RV50: https://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/tools/sbdb_lookup.html#/?sstr=2024%20RV50

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astronomy for hobbyist

Chasing Celestial Wonders: Your Guide to Spotting Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS is visible tonight after sunset. It’s a rare, long-period comet from the Oort Cloud, best viewed with binoculars against the western horizon.

Published

1 month ago

October 14, 2024

Charles Elliot

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS. By cafuego – https://www.flickr.com/photos/cafuego/54036127092/

Greetings, stargazers! If you missed the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights this past Thursday or are simply craving another celestial spectacle, there’s an unmissable show taking place in the night sky right now—Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS. Also known as C/2023 A3, this comet has recently made its closest approach to Earth, and it’s treating us with a glorious exhibition as it makes its way across the post-sunset western horizon.

When and Where to Look

Tonight, Sunday, October 13th, is the perfect opportunity for observers in the northern hemisphere to catch a glimpse of Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS. Approximately 45 minutes after sunset, keep your eyes peeled toward the western horizon. Although it’s close to reaching its intrinsic brightest, spotting the comet just after sunset could be challenging due to fading twilight. However, don’t let the bright, 83%-lit waxing gibbous moon discourage you, as its brightness won’t interfere with your viewing.

How to Spot the Comet

Using some well-known celestial reference points can help you locate the comet. First, ensure you have a clear view of the western horizon. Find the bright planet Venus and the bright star Arcturus—they will be close to the horizon. Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS will be situated slightly below a midpoint between these two brilliant points.

Although you might be able to spot the comet with your naked eyes, a pair of binoculars will enhance your view. The comet will rise a little higher in the sky this weekend compared to previous nights, providing a clearer view. Still, the observing window will be relatively short as the comet will quickly sink below the horizon again.

Upcoming Opportunities

If you’re unable to view the comet tonight, don’t worry. According to Sky & Telescope, the comet-watching conditions will improve as we move into the next week. Monday, October 14th, and Tuesday, October 15th are projected to offer the best viewing experiences since the comet will appear against a darker sky. Be sure to check back for our detailed viewing guides for those nights.

It’s important to note that comets—and weather conditions—can be unpredictable, so take advantage of clear skies whenever possible.

A Glimpse into History

Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS is more than just a fleeting celestial visitor; it’s an extraordinary long-period comet that hails from the Oort Cloud, the distant sphere of icy bodies that encircles our solar system. This comet makes an incredibly rare journey into the inner solar system only once every 80,000 years—a historic event to witness!

Discovered in early 2023 by astronomers from China’s Tsuchinshan Observatory, with its presence confirmed by the ATLAS telescope in South Africa, Comet C/2023 A3 represents both scientific curiosity and natural beauty.

Stay tuned to our astronomy section here https://stmdailynews.com/science/astronomy/

If you want more comet news, visit Earth-Sky: https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/visible-planets-tonight-mars-jupiter-venus-saturn-mercury/