Scientists have discovered evidence of magnetic fields in the cosmic web of the universe

When we talk about the cosmic web, we mean the clusters, filaments and voids that constitute the large-scale structure of the universe. Well, scientists have discovered evidence of magnetic fields in the cosmic network of the universe: this will allow us to find answers to some of the greatest mysteries of astronomy. A particular area of interest for researchers is how magnetic fields behave on a large scale and their role in shaping larger cosmic structures.

A composite image showing the magnetic fields of the cosmic web, featuring a pull out of how radio data was stacked. (Credit: Vernstrom et al. 2023)

Dr Tessa Vernstrom of the University of Australia spoke about this discovery. He explained that as matter melts in the universe, it produces a shock wave that speeds up particles, amplifying these intergalactic magnetic fields.

The study recorded radio emissions from the cosmic network, the first evidence we can see of these powerful shockwaves. Already in 2020 the research team had started to look for the "radio glow" of the cosmic network, but without particular success.

For this study, scientists used data and all-sky radio maps from the Global Magneto-Ionic Medium Survey, the Planck Legacy Archive, the Owens Valley Long Wavelength Array, and the Murchison Widefield Array. The team stacked the data over the known clusters and filaments in the cosmic web.

 This is the first time we have been able to observe shock waves in the largest structures in the universe.

References: Techexplorist,   Tessa Vernstrom et al. Polarized accretion shocks from the cosmic web. Science Advances. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade7233