Daily Current Affairs : 4-November-2023

In the vast expanse of the universe, a fascinating celestial spectacle has recently captured the attention of scientists around the globe. The spotlight shines on the M83 galaxy, also known as NGC 5236, a stunning spiral-shaped galaxy located a staggering 15 million light-years away from Earth. What makes this discovery even more intriguing is the fact that it might hold the key to unraveling the secrets of star formation.

Unlocking the Mysteries of M83: A Closer Look
  • The M83 galaxy exhibits a distinctive spiral shape and features a bar-like structure at its center, drawing the curiosity of astronomers.
  • The James Webb Space Telescope, equipped with its powerful Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI), has captured an exquisite image of this captivating spiral galaxy.
  • Unlike the visible light spectrum perceptible to our eyes, MIRI detects infrared light, enabling scientists to explore hidden realms beyond human vision.
The FEAST Program: Illuminating Galactic Phenomena
  • FEAST, an acronym for Feedback in Emerging Extragalactic Star Clusters, serves as a pioneering initiative in the realm of galactic exploration.
  • Scientists, driven by an insatiable curiosity, have harnessed the capabilities of MIRI to observe M83 under the umbrella of the FEAST program.
  • The primary objective of FEAST is to delve into the intricate processes of star formation within galaxies and comprehend their impact on the surrounding cosmic environment.
  • Stars, as they come into existence, emit matter and energy, a phenomenon aptly termed “stellar feedback.” This process plays a pivotal role in shaping the rates at which stars are born, influencing the very fabric of the universe.
The Far-reaching Implications of FEAST
  • FEAST extends its inquisitive gaze not only to M83 but also to five other galaxies, illuminating diverse cosmic phenomena.
  • By unraveling the enigma of stellar feedback, scientists aim to gain profound insights into the mechanisms governing the birth of stars, further enriching our understanding of the cosmos.
  • This groundbreaking research not only expands the boundaries of human knowledge but also paves the way for future explorations, opening doors to unprecedented discoveries in the realms of astronomy and astrophysics.
Important Points:
  • M83 Galaxy Exploration:
    • M83, also known as NGC 5236, is a spiral-shaped galaxy with a central bar-like structure.
    • Located 15 million light-years away from Earth, it has captured the attention of scientists due to its unique features.
  • James Webb Space Telescope and MIRI:
    • The James Webb Space Telescope utilized its Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) to capture an image of the M83 galaxy.
    • MIRI detects infrared light, allowing scientists to explore cosmic phenomena beyond human vision.
  • FEAST Program:
    • FEAST stands for Feedback in Emerging Extragalactic Star Clusters.
    • Scientists use MIRI under the FEAST program to observe M83 and five other galaxies.
    • The program aims to understand the processes of star formation within galaxies and their impact on the cosmic environment.
    • Stellar feedback, the energy emitted by stars as they form, is a crucial factor influencing star formation rates.
  • Scientific Significance:
    • Studying stellar feedback provides insights into the mechanisms governing star birth.
    • FEAST’s research expands human knowledge in astronomy and astrophysics.
    • The discoveries made pave the way for future explorations, promising unprecedented findings in the universe.
Why In News

A James Webb telescope’s stunning click captured the mesmerizing spiral-shaped M-83 galaxy as part of the FEAST programme, unveiling its intricate beauty and contributing valuable data to our understanding of the universe.

MCQs about M83 Galaxy in the FEAST Program

  1. What is the primary objective of the FEAST program?
    A. Explore black holes in galaxies
    B. Investigate star formation processes in galaxies
    C. Study planetary atmospheres
    D. Analyze cosmic radiation patterns
    Correct Answer: B. Investigate star formation processes in galaxies
    Explanation: The FEAST program aims to understand the processes of star formation within galaxies and their impact on the cosmic environment.
  2. Which instrument of the James Webb Space Telescope was used to capture the image of the M83 galaxy?
    A. Optical Camera
    B. Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI)
    C. Ultraviolet Spectrometer
    D. X-ray Detector
    Correct Answer: B. Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI)
    Explanation: The James Webb Space Telescope utilized its Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) to capture an image of the M83 galaxy. MIRI detects infrared light, enabling scientists to explore hidden realms beyond human vision.
  3. What does “stellar feedback” refer to in the context of the essay?
    A. The energy emitted by stars as they form, influencing star formation rates
    B. The interaction between stars and comets
    C. The gravitational pull between stars and neighboring galaxies
    D. The process of star explosions leading to the formation of nebulae
    Correct Answer: A. The energy emitted by stars as they form, influencing star formation rates
    Explanation: Stellar feedback is the term used to describe the outpouring of energy from stars into the environments which form them. It is a crucial process in determining the rates at which stars form.

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