Milky Way Wave: Astronomers Discover Massive Ripple
Here’s a breakdown of the key information from the provided text:
* Milky way Wave: A colossal wave is rippling through the Milky Way galaxy, affecting the movement of stars and cosmic dust.
* Origin & size: the wave originates from the center of the galaxy and spans almost half of its total body.
* Warped Galaxy: This wave exists within a galaxy that is already warped, notably at its outer edges.
* Visual Analogy: The movement of stars due to the wave is likened to fish bobbing up and down after a boat passes.
* Data Source: The revelation is based on images and data from the European Space Agency’s gaia space telescope.
* Scientific publication: The findings are detailed in a study published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics.
* Gaia’s Status: The Gaia spacecraft has recently ceased operations.
* Precession: The Milky Way spins and wobbles around its center.
