Using data from the National Science Foundation’s Very Large Array, an international team of astronomers has for the first time detected circular polarization in radio emission originating from a massive protostar, IRAS 18162-2048 — unveiling fresh clues about the cosmic forces shaping our universe.
Recent News
Space’s Spinning Enigma: A ‘Unicorn’ Object Defies Astrophysics
Researchers have identified an exceptionally unusual cosmic object known as a Long Period Radio Transient (LPT), named CHIME J1634+44.
Astronomers Discover Massive Molecular Cloud Hidden in Milky Way
In a new study published in the Astrophysical Journal, researchers using the U.S. National Science Foundation Green Bank Telescope (NSF GBT) have peered into a molecular cloud known as M4.7-0.8, nicknamed the Midpoint cloud. Their observations have revealed a dynamic region bustling with activity, including potential sites of new star formation.
AUI Launches New Podcast

How do scientists form breakthroughs and create inventions that make our modern way of life possible?
“Beyond the Breakthrough” a new podcast from AUI, takes listeners behind the scenes of big science discoveries and developments. The first episode will launch on March 26 – National Science Appreciation Day.
In each episode, host Kelsey Underwood, AUI’s digital communications specialist, speaks with one or more industry experts to breakdown a scientific advancement and investigate who and what made it possible.
“The goal of ‘Beyond the Breakthrough’ is not only to provide the public with more insight into what goes on at large user facilities, but also to inspire new ideas in the science community and upcoming generations of scientists,” Underwood said. “From seasoned scientists to high school students, the show can be enjoyed by all who have an interest in STEM.”
In season one, listeners can expect episodes on “Using Radar for Planetary Defense”, “Combating the Challenges of Sourcing Power”, “Advancing Science with the User Facility Model” and “Engaging Communities in STEM in the Digital Age”, among others.
“Beyond the Breakthrough” episodes will release on the last Wednesday of each month. Listeners can stream episodes on PodBean, Spotify and YouTube. The trailer is now available to stream. For new episode reminders and updates on the podcast, follow AUI on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook.
About AUI
AUI is an independent, not-for-profit corporation founded in 1946 that builds, manages, and operates large research and development (R&D) facilities for the federal government including the U.S. National Science Foundation National Radio Astronomy Observatory, which includes the Green Bank Observatory in West Virginia and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile.
Recent News
Groundbreaking Magnetic Field Discovery Near Massive Protostar
Using data from the National Science Foundation’s Very Large Array, an international team of astronomers has for the first time detected circular polarization in radio emission originating from a massive protostar, IRAS 18162-2048 — unveiling fresh clues about the cosmic forces shaping our universe.
Space’s Spinning Enigma: A ‘Unicorn’ Object Defies Astrophysics
Researchers have identified an exceptionally unusual cosmic object known as a Long Period Radio Transient (LPT), named CHIME J1634+44.
Astronomers Discover Massive Molecular Cloud Hidden in Milky Way
In a new study published in the Astrophysical Journal, researchers using the U.S. National Science Foundation Green Bank Telescope (NSF GBT) have peered into a molecular cloud known as M4.7-0.8, nicknamed the Midpoint cloud. Their observations have revealed a dynamic region bustling with activity, including potential sites of new star formation.