Astronomers Create Galaxy-Sized Detector to Map Gravitational Wave Background

Using pulsars and the MeerKAT telescope, researchers produced the most detailed map yet of gravitational waves, uncovering a possible anomaly linked to supermassive black hole collisions.

Scientists used the MeerKAT Pulsar Timing Array in South Africa to detect low-frequency gravitational waves by observing 83 pulsars over five years.
The gravitational wave background, a 'cosmic ocean' of ripples from galactic mergers, was found to be louder and more dynamic than previously anticipated.
A surprising 'hot spot' of gravitational wave activity in the Southern Hemisphere suggests a potential directional bias or distinct source, such as merging supermassive black holes.
The findings challenge current theories about the number of supermassive black holes, raising questions about the universe's evolution and cosmic architecture.
Further international collaboration and data analysis are needed to confirm the anomaly and refine understanding of the origins of these waves.