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Astronomers may have identified a potential dark galaxy, a structure composed predominantly of dark matter, located within the local universe. Dark galaxies, which lack stars, are largely theoretical but could significantly enhance our understanding of galaxy formation processes. This candidate was detected within a substantial, fast-moving gas cloud that has been known since the 1960s. Observations using high-resolution imaging revealed a compact knot of gas, suggesting the possibility of a dark galaxy. Yet, skepticism remains among some scientists; Tobias Westmeier, an astronomer, posits that it is more likely a conventional gas cloud situated on the outskirts of the Milky Way.
The findings were shared in a recent study published in Science Adviser. The research indicates that since the early 2000s, several candidates for dark galaxies have surfaced near the Milky Way, although numerous studies have indicated that these objects may have been misidentified. This latest work underscores the notion that the proposed dark galaxy may have formed as a result of a collision with cosmic gas in close proximity to our galaxy. The discovery of dark galaxies could enhance the accuracy of computer simulations and offer novel insights into galaxy evolution.
Astronomers Discover Dark Galaxy Candidate Near Milky Way
A report from NASA revealed that a possible dark galaxy was uncovered amidst the realm of dark matter during the universe’s formative periods. Astronomers are striving to better understand the development of these enigmatic black galaxies, which lack star formations. First observed over fifty years ago, the vast, swiftly moving gas cloud has shown renewed potential as scientists have investigated it further. High-resolution observations have depicted a tiny cluster of gas that might correspond to a dark galaxy. Jin-Long Xu from the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing expressed to Science News that this discovery could represent the first instance of a potential dark galaxy in the nearby universe.
However, not all researchers endorse the classification of this clump as a dark galaxy. Westmeier emphasizes that the object is more likely to be a standard gas cloud found at the Milky Way’s periphery. This line of reasoning has existed since the early 2000s when some supposed dark galaxies were detected in orbit.
The recent discoveries stemmed from observations made with three radio telescopes, including high-resolution images captured by the Five-Hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) located in southern China. In examining much of the gas cluster, scientists traced the velocity and direction of hydrogen gas, ultimately determining it to be approximately 900,000 light-years from Earth.
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