Los Angeles, California – Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery that sheds light on the presence of oxygen and nitrogen gases in the vast reaches of space, far beyond our own galaxy. Researchers have recently published a study in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, revealing the intricate mechanisms by which these essential elements traverse the universe.
Studying gas outflows from galaxies has been a challenging task, as these outflows are faint compared to the overall brightness of the galaxies themselves. The team behind this research has managed to observe and analyze outflows in only a few galaxies nearby, leading to a limited understanding of their properties and effects on star formation.
Galaxies evolve through the constant process of star formation, which is heavily influenced by the availability of gas as the raw material for new stars. The most massive stars in galaxies meet their explosive end as supernovae, ejecting a mix of gas and heavy elements like oxygen and sulphur into space. These outflows not only regulate star formation but also play a crucial role in distributing elements necessary for planetary formation.
One particular focus of the study was the spiral galaxy NGC 4383, located in a region where many stars are actively forming. By utilizing advanced technology like the Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) mounted on the Very Large Telescope in Chile, researchers were able to capture high-resolution images of a massive outflow extending 20,000 light-years from the galaxy’s center.
The data collected revealed intricate details about the movement of gas and chemical elements within NGC 4383, showcasing turbulent structures and chimney-like formations caused by violent supernova explosions. The outflow was found to be expelling gas at a staggering rate of over 200 kilometers per second, carrying heavy elements like oxygen and nitrogen into the surrounding space.
This groundbreaking research is part of the MAUVE project, aimed at deepening our understanding of star formation and galaxy evolution. As scientists continue to unravel the mysteries of the universe, new surprises and revelations are expected to emerge, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge in astronomy and astrophysics.