Strange Radio Signal Detected by Astronomers
Another radio burst of unknown origin has recently hit Earth. The frequency of the burst is surprisingly low; around 50 megahertz and its source could not be identified.
Fast radio bursts remain very interesting events, as they can generate a surprising quantity of energy in a short span of time. In some cases they can reach the en energy output of millions of suns in mere seconds. Multiple repeated signals that send out several FRBs from the same location have been recently detected. This time they were able to track down the location in the Universe from which they are coming.
In a recently published report it is noted that a bizarre FRB was detected by an array of radio telescopes in British Columbia on the 25th of July. It was named FRB 180725A. The most interesting fact is low frequencies registered by the devices, allow as 580 megahertz, believed to be the first detection of a FRB under 700 MHz. It was shorter than two ms, and it is believed that the signals may have come from billions of light-years away, from a very energetic source.
It is believed that the signals may help us to better understand the origins of the Universe and what prompted the curious Epoch of Reionisation, when the interstellar medium was ionized during the birth of the universe.
Scientists have also tried to beam radio signals to space in order to attract a possible response from potentially intelligent life forms but since our signals are not powerful, they will travel slowly around space. Among the most notable signals, they beamed famous songs by the Beatles.
Since FRB 180725A was detected, additional FRBs were observed at an even lower frequency of 400 MHz. There is no hint that the events are related, but further research is being done in order to explore the origin and sources.
As our second lead editor, Anna C. Mackinno provides guidance on the stories Great Lakes Ledger reporters cover. She has been instrumental in making sure the content on the site is clear and accurate for our readers. If you see a particularly clever title, you can likely thank Anna. Anna received a BA and and MA from Fordham University.
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