Hubble watches neutron stars collide and explode to create black hole and 'birth atoms'
Astronomers have made groundbreaking observations of neutron star collisions, revealing their dramatic consequences, including the formation of black holes and the birth of new atomic elements. Here are the key points:
Neutron Star Collision: The collision of two neutron stars results in an explosive event that can create a black hole, as observed in the event GW170817.
Kilonova Explosion: This merger produces a kilonova, a powerful explosion that emits light hundreds of millions of times brighter than the sun, illuminating its surroundings.
Creation of Atoms: For the first time, scientists have observed the formation of atomic nuclei during these violent events, marking a significant step in understanding nucleosynthesis.
Element Formation: The extreme conditions allow for the rapid neutron capture process (r-process), leading to the creation of heavy elements such as gold, silver, and uranium.
High Temperatures: The temperatures generated during these collisions can reach billions of degrees, comparable to those present just after the Big Bang.
Multi-Messenger Astronomy: The event was detected using various instruments, including gravitational wave observatories and electromagnetic telescopes, showcasing the power of multi-messenger astronomy.