What is the newly discovered astronomical object nicknamed Cloud-9?

Cloud-9 is a potential new type of astronomical object, thought to be a starless cloud rich in dark matter, possibly a remnant from early galaxy formation.

How does Cloud-9 help astronomers study dark matter?

Cloud-9 offers a rare, direct observation of a dark matter-dominated cloud, providing insights into its properties and role in cosmic structure.

Where is the Messier 94 galaxy located in relation to Cloud-9?

The Messier 94 galaxy is located 16 million light-years away from Earth, and Cloud-9 was initially discovered on its outskirts.

Home / Science / Cosmic Enigma: 'Cloud-9' Could Reveal Dark Matter's Nature

Cosmic Enigma: 'Cloud-9' Could Reveal Dark Matter's Nature

9 Jan

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Summary

A newly discovered object, nicknamed Cloud-9, might be a remnant of early galaxy formation.
This starless cloud offers a rare glimpse into dark matter's elusive properties.
Future studies of Cloud-9 could unlock secrets of dark matter and cosmic evolution.

Cosmic Enigma: 'Cloud-9' Could Reveal Dark Matter's Nature

Astronomers have identified a potential new type of celestial object, nicknamed Cloud-9, which could be instrumental in understanding dark matter. This enigmatic substance, thought to comprise 85% of the universe's mass, shapes the cosmos but has never been directly observed. Cloud-9's significance lies in its potential to be a primordial remnant from the universe's early formation stages.

Observations, including those from the Hubble Space Telescope, revealed Cloud-9 to be entirely starless, defying typical galaxy formation models. This 'failed galaxy' is rich in dark matter, estimated at 5 billion solar masses, with only about 1 million solar masses of neutral hydrogen. Scientists believe it exists in a delicate balance, possessing enough mass to retain its gas but not enough to initiate star formation.