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.
International Astronomical Union (IAU) General Assembly
Every year, astronomers from all around the globe gather for a couple of weeks at the IAU General Assembly to discuss their discoveries and observations, and to exchange ideas and challenges facing astronomy. This year the assembly is taking place in Honolulu, Hawaii. I had the privilege to give opening remarks this past Tuesday. As I said in my remarks, “it is a great honor to represent the Obama Administration at this historic event.”
NSF is one of the world’s leading institutions in astronomy. For decades, NSF-funded researchers have been exploring the most intriguing mysteries of the heavens. We hope to continue doing so!
Great catching up with the National Solar Observatory (NSO) and NSF solar astronomy program officer Dave Boboltz. One of NSO’s major projects is the NSF-funded Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope on Haleakala, Hawaii. This telescope will provide new insights into solar phenomena, including solar storms. Photo credit: NSF
With the recent announcement about Breakthrough Listen, I enjoyed talking with National Radio Astronomy Observatory’s Tony Beasley about how NSF-funded radio astronomy will play a key role. Photo credit: NSF
The Large Synoptic Survey Telescope in Chile has the world’s largest digital camera. Photo credit: NSF
NSF booth at the assembly. I’m with Patricia Knezek, NSF deputy division director for the Division of Astronomical Sciences. Photo credit: NSF
Follow and engage in the online conversation using #IAU2015 and #NSFastronomy.
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.