Title:
Astrosat Resolves the Heating Mechanisms of the Molecular ISM
Agreement Number:
24EXPAST02
Agreement Value:
$36,720.00
Agreement Date:
Mar 31, 2025 - Mar 31, 2026
Description:
This project will be using new images from the Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope on the Astrosat satellite mission to study the ultraviolet (UV) light from high mass stars in a nearby galaxy. Theories predict that this high-energy UV light is thought to heat the surrounding gas in the galaxy, but, until now, the combination of high-resolution UV maps (from Astrosat) and sensitive maps of the gas that can trace gas temperature (from a ground-based radio telescope) were not abailable simultaneously. The project will measure whether there is a signature of gas heating from high mass stars. This measurement is important for understanding how galaxies evolve: the current theory of galaxy evolution proposes that the radiation of high mass stars reduces the efficiency of star formation in a galaxy’s gas. This work will test whether the heating from the stars seen in the Astrosat data is sufficient to change gas conditions and potentially star formation efficiency.
Organization:
Canadian Space Agency
Expected Results:
The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.
Location:
Edmonton, Alberta, CA T6G 2M7
Reference Number:
003-2024-2025-Q4-00051
Report Type:
Grants and Contributions
Recipient's Legal Name:
The Governors of the University of Alberta
Program:
Class Grant and Contribution Program to Support Research, Awareness and Learning in Space Science and Technology
Program Purpose:
This program supports knowledge development and innovation in the CSA's priority areas while increasing the awareness and participation of Canadians in space-related disciplines and activities.
The Research Component aims to support the development of science and technology; foster the continual development of a critical mass of researchers and highly qualified people in Canada; and support information gathering and space-related studies and research pertaining to Canadian Space Agency priorities.