High-energy transient signals are most often determined to be gamma-ray burst events, but the recently-launched Einstein Probe has expanded astronomers’ ability to quickly respond to similar signals occurring at X-ray wavelengths. Now, a multi-wavelength study of EP240408a concludes that while many of the signal’s characteristics might lead to the conclusion that it is a gamma-ray burst, the non-detection at radio wavelengths precludes that possibility.
Recent News
Students Contribute to New Understanding of ‘Twinkling’ Pulsars
The flexible observing setup of the Green Bank Observatory’s 20-meter telescope enabled frequent, long-duration observations of eight pulsars, spanning two and a half years for a student-driven study carried out by students in the Pulsar Science Collaboratory program.
Double the Disks, Double the Discovery: New Insights into Planet Formation in DF Tau
Tucked away in a star-forming region in the Taurus constellation, a pair of circling stars are displaying some unexpected differences in the circumstellar disks of dust and gas that surround them. A new study led by researchers at Lowell Observatory, combining data from the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and Keck Observatory, has unveiled intriguing findings about planet formation in this binary star system, known as DF Tau, along with other systems in this region.
Around the World in 8 meetings
AUI and AWB travel the Embassy Circuit to Bring New Opportunities to South America
Washington DC – A casual stroll down Embassy Row can send a traveler from one continent to another in matter of seconds. Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) and Astronomers Without Borders (AWB) recently made such a trip to bring a stellar experience to the students of South America. As part of an ongoing partnership to connect people worldwide through various aspects of astronomy, AUI and AWB are working together to disseminate eclipse glasses and educational resources globally to benefit children and educators most in need.
“The July 2, 2019 and December 2020 solar eclipse provides an amazing opportunity to enrich the STEM education of students near the path of totality,” said Dr. Mike Simmons, President of AWB, “and with the 2024 solar eclipse here in the U.S. on the horizon, we have the opportunity to further reuse and recycle eclipse glasses and educational content from the spectacular 2017 solar eclipse.” AUI and AWB have been working with embassy staff from countries in and near the 2019 path of totality to solve logistical challenges of shipping eclipse glasses, educational materials, promoting their use in schools, and charting an engaging course for AWB’s education outreach vehicle.
Astronomers Without Borders brings the world together to share their passion of astronomy and the wonders of the Universe. Support projects allow those in developed countries to share with others, making it possible for everyone to enjoy the wonders of the night, and daytime, sky. And in the process of looking outward together, we learn about each other and create lasting bonds, regardless of country or culture.
AUI and AWB meet at the Embassy of Paraguay. Pictured from left to right: Tim Spuck, AUI Director of EPE; Zoe Chee, AWB Program Manager; and Mike Simmons, AWB President.
“The embassies provide important opportunities to learn about the culture, STEM initiatives and needs, and opportunities for collaboration in countries around the world,” said Dr. Tim Spuck, AUI’s Director of Education and Public Outreach, “We are excited to work with Chile, home to the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array observatory, and to forge and strengthen friendships in Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil.” Associated Universities recognizes the importance of cultivating excellence, delivering value, enhancing education, and engaging the public. The AUI Office of Education and Public Engagement (OEPE) builds on decades of experience across formal and informal education and outreach, and the management of large complex science projects and facilities. Through the Office of Education and Public Engagement, AUI works to identify and develop initiatives that are innovative and potentially transformative in STEM-related education and outreach.
Recent News
NSF VLA Contributes Crucial Puzzle Piece to ‘Peculiar’ High Energy Transient
High-energy transient signals are most often determined to be gamma-ray burst events, but the recently-launched Einstein Probe has expanded astronomers’ ability to quickly respond to similar signals occurring at X-ray wavelengths. Now, a multi-wavelength study of EP240408a concludes that while many of the signal’s characteristics might lead to the conclusion that it is a gamma-ray burst, the non-detection at radio wavelengths precludes that possibility.
Students Contribute to New Understanding of ‘Twinkling’ Pulsars
The flexible observing setup of the Green Bank Observatory’s 20-meter telescope enabled frequent, long-duration observations of eight pulsars, spanning two and a half years for a student-driven study carried out by students in the Pulsar Science Collaboratory program.
Double the Disks, Double the Discovery: New Insights into Planet Formation in DF Tau
Tucked away in a star-forming region in the Taurus constellation, a pair of circling stars are displaying some unexpected differences in the circumstellar disks of dust and gas that surround them. A new study led by researchers at Lowell Observatory, combining data from the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) and Keck Observatory, has unveiled intriguing findings about planet formation in this binary star system, known as DF Tau, along with other systems in this region.