New Map Reveals Mysterious Molecules that Affect Starlight in Our Galaxy

Scientists have managed to create a unique map of enigmatic molecules in our galaxy that are responsible for puzzling features in the light from stars. By analyzing the light of hundreds of thousands of celestial objects, the researchers can now present a map that may just tell scientists a bit more about our universe.

The puzzling features in the light from stars are called "Diffuse Interstellar Bands" (DIBs). These features have been a mystery ever since they were first discovered in 1922. When analyzing the light from stars, the researchers found unexpected lines that were created by something in the interstellar space between the stars and Earth.

These lines are actually caused by a variety of molecules. Yet exactly which of many thousands of possible molecules are responsible for these features has long remained a mystery. Now, researchers are getting a closer look with this new map.

The new map was created by SDSS data, and reveals the locations of these molecules. The researchers don't currently have a full map, but it's already revealed quite a few interesting patterns.

The researchers were able to see the types of environments in which the molecules are most likely to be found. Some molecules like dense regions of gas and dust, while others prefer spots away from stars. These findings will help guide researchers in other studies that focus on pinning down the properties and natures of these molecules.

"Almost a hundred years after their discovery, the exact nature of these molecules still remains a mystery, but we are getting one step closer to understanding what they are made of," said Brice Menard, one of the researchers, in a news release. "The era of Big Data in astronomy allows us to look at the universe in new ways. There is so much to explore with these large datasets. This is just the beginning."

The findings were presented at a meeting of the American Astronomical Society.

You can see the map for yourself here.

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