A research team, including astronomers from McGill University, has discovered 25 new sources of repeating fast radio bursts (FRBs), increasing the known total to 50. Using advanced statistical tools to analyze data from the CHIME (Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment) project, researchers found patterns suggesting that previously thought one-off FRBs may actually be repeating events that are often inactive. The study, published in The Astrophysical Journal, aims to clarify the mysterious origins of these cosmic phenomena, which are believed to stem from the remnants of dying stars. Ziggy Pleunis, the study’s lead author, highlighted the significance of their statistical methods, emphasizing that they can accurately determine whether multiple bursts from similar locations are coincidental. The findings prompt a reevaluation of FRBs, particularly whether repeating and non-repeating bursts derive from distinct populations. Adaeze Ibik, a PhD student involved in the project, noted that identifying associated galaxies for new repeating FRBs allows for deeper investigation into their nature. Overall, the research promises to unlock new insights into FRBs, potentially revealing more about stellar explosions and the material expelled during such events, which plays a crucial role in galactic evolution.
