AI reveals cosmic bubbles in our galaxy 🫧

Japanese researchers have discovered cosmic structures invisible to the naked eye thanks to artificial intelligence.

A team from Osaka Metropolitan University developed a deep learning model to analyze data from space telescopes. Their study, published in Publications of the Astronomical Society of Japan, identified Spitzer bubbles—gaseous formations around massive stars.


These bubbles result from the intense activity of young stars and supernova explosions. They play a key role in understanding galactic dynamics and stellar life cycles. AI enabled their detection with unprecedented precision.

Ph.D. student Shimpei Nishimoto and Professor Toshikazu Onishi led the research. Their model analyzes images from the Spitzer and James Webb telescopes, revealing previously overlooked structures. These discoveries open new perspectives on galaxy evolution.

Spitzer bubbles are valuable indicators of the violent phenomena shaping the Universe. Studying them could help us better understand how stars influence their surroundings. AI proves to be an indispensable tool for modern astronomy.

The researchers plan to use these technologies to explore other galaxies. The goal is to map similar structures and study their impact on star formation. This approach could reshape our understanding of the Universe.

How is AI transforming astronomy?

Artificial intelligence enables rapid analysis of vast amounts of astronomical data. It identifies complex patterns that traditional methods might miss.

In this study, AI was trained to recognize Spitzer bubbles among thousands of images. This approach significantly accelerated the discovery process.

AI's use in astronomy paves the way for new discoveries. It allows researchers to focus on interpreting results rather than collecting them.

In the future, AI could help uncover still-unknown cosmic phenomena. Its potential for space exploration is immense.