NASA哈勃望远镜利用恒星运动追踪矮星系中的暗物质

NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has been used to study the distribution of dark matter within galaxies, focusing on the Draco dwarf galaxy located 250,000 light-years from Earth. The research team measured the dynamic motions of stars within this galaxy over 18 years, creating a three-dimensional understanding of their movements. This approach provided valuable insights into the distribution of dark matter within the galaxy, indicating similarities with cosmological models.

By combining line-of-sight velocity and proper motions of stars, the team was able to create an unprecedented analysis of the stars' 3D movements, reducing the amount of assumptions applied in previous studies. The precision achieved in measuring the stars' proper motions was equivalent to measuring an annual shift a little less than the width of a golf ball as seen on the moon from Earth.

The methodologies and models developed for the Draco dwarf galaxy can be applied to other galaxies in the future, with the team already analyzing Hubble observations of the Sculptor and Ursa Minor dwarf galaxies. Furthermore, collaboration across different space telescope missions, such as NASA's upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, will help reveal new details of dark matter's properties among different galaxies.

Overall, this study represents a long-term investment and requires patience, reflecting the dedication and planning that has been ongoing for many years. The findings have been published in The Astrophysical Journal, offering valuable contributions to the understanding of dark matter in galaxies.