Research Roundup: NU researchers analyze lunar soil, unravel fates of stars near black hole

Northwestern University (NU) researchers have recently made noteworthy strides in the realms of astronomy and planetary science. The Daily Northwestern reported on two of NU's latest research projects that are advancing our understanding of the moon and the behavior of stars near black holes.

Firstly, Earth and planetary sciences Professor Steven Jacobsen has been awarded funding from NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center for a project focused on understanding the exact composition of lunar soil. This research is crucial for future moon-based constructions as it will help engineers design structures that can withstand the unique conditions on the moon's surface. The study will involve analyzing samples collected during previous lunar missions and using advanced techniques such as X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy to determine the mineralogical makeup of the regolith (lunar soil). This information will be essential for planning future missions and establishing sustainable lunar habitats.

In another groundbreaking discovery, astrophysicists from Northwestern University have unraveled the fates of stars orbiting near a supermassive black hole using data from the Hubble Space Telescope. This research, published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics, sheds light on how these stars behave when they get too close to the event horizon – the point of no return – of a black hole.

The team, led by Professor Eric Bellm, discovered that some stars are torn apart by the intense gravitational forces before they reach the event horizon, while others manage to survive for much longer periods. This finding challenges previous theories that suggested all stars would be destroyed instantly when they crossed the event horizon. By studying these stars' orbits, the researchers were able to determine their individual fates based on their proximity to the black hole.

These findings not only contribute to our growing knowledge of black holes but also provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between gravity, stellar evolution, and the behavior of matter under extreme conditions.

In summary, Northwestern University researchers are making significant strides in both astronomy and planetary science through their studies on lunar soil composition for future moon-based constructions and the investigation of star fates near supermassive black holes using data from the Hubble Space Telescope. These discoveries expand our understanding of the universe and pave the way for future research and technological advancements.