Curtin University-led research has made a groundbreaking discovery by finding a rare dust particle trapped in an ancient extra-terrestrial meteorite that originated from a star other than our own sun. Lead author Dr Nicole Nevill, along with colleagues, made the discovery during her PhD studies at Curtin University. The researchers used a technique called atom probe tomography to analyze the particle and reconstruct its chemistry on an atomic scale, revealing unique information about its origins. The particle, known as a presolar grain, has a distinctive ratio of magnesium isotopes that is unlike anything found in our solar system, indicating it was formed in a hydrogen burning supernova.
The discovery of this extremely high isotopic ratio of 3,025 is the highest ever recorded, pointing to the rare and recent formation of the presolar grain in a hydrogen burning supernova. Co-author Dr David Saxey from the John de Laeter Centre at Curtin University stated that the research is groundbreaking in understanding the universe, as it provides new levels of detail and insights into astrophysical models. The use of the atom probe in this study has enabled researchers to gain a deeper understanding of how hydrogen burning supernovae formed, a type of star that has only recently been discovered.
Co-author Professor Phil Bland from Curtin’s School of Earth and Planetary Sciences highlighted the significance of studying rare particles in meteorites in unlocking insights into cosmic events beyond our solar system. This research has shown the ability to link atomic-scale measurements in the laboratory to a newly discovered type of star, bridging the gap between theoretical models and observational data. The discovery of the presolar grain trapped in the meteorite opens up new possibilities for research in understanding the formation of stars and the evolution of galaxies.
The analysis of the presolar grain has provided valuable insights into the life of its parent star, offering a snapshot into its formation and evolution. The unique ratio of magnesium isotopes found in the particle indicates its formation in a hydrogen burning supernova, shedding light on the processes that occur during the life cycle of stars. This discovery challenges previous understanding of star formation and provides a new level of detail that was previously inaccessible through traditional analytical techniques. By studying these rare particles, researchers are able to piece together the history of our universe and gain a deeper understanding of its complex mechanisms.
The research conducted at Curtin University has pushed the boundaries of analytical techniques and astrophysical models, paving the way for future discoveries in understanding the complexities of our universe. The use of the atom probe technology in this study has allowed for unprecedented insights into the composition and origins of presolar grains, providing valuable information about the different types of stars that existed before our own sun. By studying these ancient particles, researchers are able to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos and gain a greater understanding of the vast and intricate processes that govern the formation of stars and galaxies.
Overall, the discovery of the rare dust particle trapped in an ancient meteorite has provided valuable insights into the formation of stars beyond our solar system. The high isotopic ratio found in the presolar grain points to its origin in a hydrogen burning supernova, a recently discovered type of star. This research has opened up new avenues for studying cosmic events and has challenged existing theories about star formation. By utilizing advanced analytical techniques and collaborating with international partners, the team at Curtin University has made significant contributions to our understanding of the universe and its complex mechanisms.
