Stars, Cells, and God

Lensed Supernovae Creation Data and Milky Way's Massive Black Hole

Jul 21, 2024
Discover the latest breakthroughs in astronomy, including the stunning imaging of black holes. Explore the mysteries of cosmic expansion rates and how they may challenge current physics. Delve into gravitational lensing's role in uncovering type 1a supernovae and the implications for our understanding of the universe's age. The relationship between supermassive black holes and quantum gravity is examined, alongside the challenges of funding cosmic exploration. Finally, learn about the quiet power of Sagittarius A* and its cosmic influence.
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INSIGHT

Cosmic Expansion Rate Discrepancy

  • Astronomers face a tension between cosmic expansion rate measurements from the early universe and those based on Cepheid variable stars.
  • Using tip of the red giant branch stars may relieve this tension, suggesting different systematic effects in measurement techniques.
ANECDOTE

Hubble Constant Debate

  • Decades ago, the Hubble constant's value was highly debated, ranging from 50 to 100 km/s/Mpc.
  • This uncertainty prompted the construction of the Hubble Space Telescope, significantly improving measurement precision.
INSIGHT

Big Bang Model and Faith

  • The narrowing discrepancy in Hubble constant measurements strengthens the Big Bang model, supporting the biblical concept of a universe with a beginning.
  • This growing consensus challenges alternative cosmological models and philosophical objections to a finite universe.
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