Groundbreaking research utilising artificial intelligence (AI) is set to transform the study of cosmic explosions, specifically supernovae. The University of Warwick is spearheading this innovative project, employing machine learning to simulate star explosions that scatter essential elements like calcium and iron throughout the universe.
Dr. Mark Magee, the lead author of the research, highlighted the dramatic improvements AI can bring. Traditional models, which can take up to 90 minutes to create, will soon be outpaced by AI, capable of generating thousands of supernova simulations in under a second. This advancement will significantly enhance the accuracy and efficiency of matching these models to real-life cosmic events.
The research aims to deepen astronomers’ understanding of the mechanisms and causes behind supernovae. By leveraging AI, the team at Warwick can conduct more detailed and consistent studies of a larger number of supernovae than ever before.
“Machine learning approaches like this enable studies of larger numbers of supernovae, in greater detail, and with more consistency than previous approaches,” said Dr. Thomas Killestein, another key researcher in the project. He noted that recent advancements in machine learning have made this ambitious research possible, with future studies set to include a wider variety of explosions and supernovae types.
The implications of this research are vast, promising not only to unravel the mysteries of these powerful cosmic events but also to enhance our understanding of the universe’s elemental composition and evolution.
