News Releases

Comet’s Water Holds Clues to Life on Earth

Comet’s Water Holds Clues to Life on Earth

New research has uncovered compelling evidence that water from a comet is strikingly similar to that found in Earth’s oceans, offering fresh support for the idea that comets may have played a crucial role in delivering water—and possibly some of the molecular ingredients for life—to our planet.

Groundbreaking Magnetic Field Discovery Near Massive Protostar

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.

AUI by the Numbers

75+

Years of Experience in Managing
Federally Funded Research and
Development Centers (FFRDCs)

30

Active Research Patents

1,130+

Doctoral Dissertations Supported by
National Radio Astronomy
Observatory Facilities

Highlights

Who We Are

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’s National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) facilities, the Center for American Supply Chain Resilience (CASCR), and the AUI Center for Advancing Therapeutics. AUI also develops and implements innovative approaches to education, outreach and workforce development.

Two ALMA technicians in orange safety suits walk next to a massive radio telescope.

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