Space turbulence is often overlooked as a force in our universe, but it plays a significant role in shaping the formation of stars and influencing solar winds. A recent breakthrough by an international team of researchers has given us a deeper understanding of this phenomenon using advanced computer simulations.
The team built the most detailed model yet of magnetized turbulence in the interstellar medium (ISM), a vast cloud of gas and particles between stars in our galaxy. The simulation, powered by the SuperMUC-NG supercomputer in Germany, explores how magnetic fields affect turbulent gas in outer space.
This new model covers an enormous scale, simulating a cube that stretches 30 light-years across. However, its flexibility lies in its ability to scale down to study smaller phenomena, such as the solar wind that affects Earth.
Scientists can now quantify in detail what to expect from magnetic turbulence on scales relevant to star formation. The research has provided a clearer picture of when and how stars take shape in our galaxy.
The researchers are also testing the model against real-world data, with promising results. This will enable them to learn about space weather and its effects on satellites and humans in space.
This advancement comes at a crucial moment, as new tools like the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) are gathering more detailed observations of magnetic turbulence in space. The advanced simulation provides researchers with a much-needed tool to interpret these findings.
The study’s lead researcher, James Beattie, notes that turbulence is ubiquitous and can be observed everywhere, from cosmic plasma to coffee. He highlights the universality of this phenomenon and its romantic appeal.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/our-milky-way-galaxys-magnetic-space-turbulence-captured-in-unprecedented-detail