astronomy
Coverage of astronomy in the Nexus archive.
- Earth may survive the sun's death after all, new study suggests
A new study suggests Earth may survive the sun's death. The article is written by Sharmila Kuthunur, an independent space journalist with a master's in journalism from Northeastern University.
- What did the night sky look like on the 1st Independence Day 250 years ago?
The article explores the appearance of the night sky on the first U.S. Independence Day, which occurred 250 years ago. It focuses on celestial conditions during the early hours of July 4, 1776.
- A strange LIGO signal could reveal the missing link behind dark matter
An unusual gravitational wave signal detected by LIGO has reignited interest in primordial black holes as a potential explanation for dark matter. Confirmation of this signal could address a major astronomical mystery by linking these theoretical objects to the nature of dark matter.
- Astronomers find fluffy, Jupiter-sized planets less dense than cotton candy
Astronomers discovered two Jupiter-sized planets with extremely low densities, comparable to cotton candy and shaving foam. Dr. George Dransfield highlighted their density in a quote comparing them to a 'nice blob of shaving foam.'
- Calicut University says ‘no’ to proposal for research on astrology
Calicut University rejected a proposal for research on astrology, stating that linking astrology with astronomy is inappropriate due to astrology being a non-scientific subject.
- How one new telescope is going to change astronomy forever
The Deep Synoptic Array telescope is set to begin construction in rural Nevada. It aims to reveal galaxies in unprecedented detail and advance understanding of galaxy formation and growth.
- Why do stars appear different colors in the night sky?
Stars appear different colors in the night sky due to variations in their surface temperatures and chemical compositions. Cooler stars emit redder light, while hotter stars emit bluer light, with color directly linked to these physical properties.
- Scientists just found a supercharged supernova — powered up by a magnetic star corpse
Scientists discovered a supercharged supernova powered by a magnetar, a highly magnetic neutron star. The finding highlights a rare cosmic event observed in a spiral galaxy with a bright spot.
- Discovery of new alien worlds rewrites understanding of the cosmos
The discovery of new alien worlds has rewritten our understanding of the cosmos, revealing new insights into the universe's formation and evolution. This breakthrough has significant implications for the field of astronomy and our knowledge of extraterrestrial life. The findings are based on recent observations and data analysis.
- Discovery of new alien worlds rewrites understanding of the cosmos
The discovery of new alien worlds has rewritten our understanding of the cosmos, revealing new insights into the universe's formation and evolution. This breakthrough has significant implications for the field of astronomy. The findings are based on recent observations and data analysis.
- Learn the night sky without an app: May's easiest star-hops for beginners
The article discusses stargazing and encourages beginners to learn the night sky without using apps. It suggests star-hopping as a method for stargazing. The article is intended for individuals interested in astronomy.
- Scientists have discovered the EDGE of the Milky Way - and it's closer than expected
Scientists have discovered the edge of the Milky Way, revealing it to be closer than previously thought. This finding provides new insights into the structure of our galaxy.
- Backyard snapshot delivers stunning galaxy image | Space photo of the day for April 27, 2026
A backyard astrophotographer captured a stunning image of an egg-shaped galaxy with blue and red hues, featured as the space photo of the day for April 27, 2026. The image showcases a vibrant central galaxy against a star-filled black space background.
- HEALPix
HEALPix is a method for pixelizing the sphere, widely used in cosmology and astronomy for analyzing cosmic microwave background data. It features equal-area pixels and hierarchical structure, enabling efficient data processing. The method is employed by projects like the Planck satellite mission.
- How to Watch the 2026 Lyrids Meteor Shower at Its Peak
The 2026 Lyrids Meteor Shower will peak between the night of April 21 and the early morning of April 22, with observers expecting to see 15 to 20 meteors per hour under optimal viewing conditions.
- Look up this week! Lyrid Meteor Shower will peak in moonless skies with up to 20 shooting stars every HOUR - here's the best time to see it
The Lyrid Meteor Shower will peak this week under moonless skies, offering up to 20 shooting stars per hour. The event is best viewed during the peak time, making it an ideal opportunity for stargazers.
- How did a scientist fleeing the Red Army end up in Armagh?
A university student has documented the life and exile of astronomer Ernst Öpik, who fled the Red Army and settled in Armagh. The article highlights his journey as a scientist and his eventual relocation to Ireland.
- New moon of April 2026 brings incredible views of the constellation Hydra, Jupiter, Venus and more this week
The new moon in April 2026 will create dark skies, offering excellent opportunities to view the constellation Hydra, Jupiter, Venus, and other celestial objects. Astronomers highlight this period as ideal for stargazing due to reduced moonlight interference.
- How to see once-in-a-lifetime Comet PanSTARRS tonight before it disappears for good
Comet PanSTARRS is visible tonight for a rare celestial event before it disappears. The article features an image showing an observer using a telescope and depictions of comets.