NYU Abu Dhabi researchers find mysterious new set of waves in Sun
Researchers from NYU Abu Dhabi’s (NYUAD) Centre for Space Science have discovered a new set of waves in the Sun that, unexpectedly, appear to travel much faster than predicted by theory.
In the study, ‘Discovery of high-frequency-retrograde vorticity waves in the Sun’, published in the journal Nature Astronomy, the researchers, led by Research Associate Chris S. Hanson, detailed how they analysed 25 years of space and ground-based data to detect these waves. The high-frequency retrograde (HFR) waves, which move in the opposite direction of the Sun’s rotation, appear as a pattern of vortices (swirling motions) on the surface of the Sun and move at three times the speed established by current theory.
The interior of the Sun and stars cannot be imaged by conventional astronomy (e.g. optical, x-ray etc.), and scientists rely on interpreting the surface signatures of a variety of waves to image the interiors. These new HFR waves may yet be an important puzzle piece in our understanding of stars.
Complex interactions between other well known waves and magnetism, gravity or convection could drive the HFR waves at this speed. “If the HFR waves could be attributed to any of these three processes, then the finding would have answered some open questions we still have about the Sun,” said Hanson. “However, these new waves don’t appear to be a result of these processes, and that’s exciting because it leads to a whole new set of questions.”
This research was conducted within NYUAD’s Centre for Space Science in collaboration with the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and New York University, using NYUAD and TIFR’s computational resources. By studying the Sun’s interior dynamics – through the use of waves – scientists can better appreciate the Sun’s potential impact on the Earth and other planets in our solar system.
“The very existence of HFR modes and their origin is a true mystery and may allude to exciting physics at play,” said Shravan Hanasoge, a co-author of the paper. “It has the potential to shed insight on the otherwise unobservable interior of the Sun.”
Drivers in Dubai could soon experience dramatically shorter journeys as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that the huge Al Khaleej Street Tunnel Project is now 80 per cent complete.
Part of the wider Al Shindagha Corridor Improvement Project, the development is expected to reduce travel times from 104 minutes to just 16 minutes by 2030.
One of Dubai’s biggest road projects
The giant tunnel project stretches approximately 1,650 metres, extending from the end of the Infinity Bridge ramp in Deira to the intersection of Al Khaleej Street and Al Wuheida Street.
Once completed, the project is expected to serve around one million people across several rapidly growing districts.
The tunnel includes:
- Three lanes in each direction
- Capacity for up to 12,000 vehicles per hour, both ways
- Development of 15 major intersections
Areas set to benefit
The upgraded road network will improve connectivity to several key areas, including:
- Dubai Islands
- Waterfront Market
- Dubai Maritime City
- Port Rashid
Officials say the project is designed to support population growth and keep pace with rapid urban expansion across the emirate.
Round-the-clock construction
To meet the planned completion schedule in the fourth quarter of this year:
- 14 teams are working continuously on excavation support
- Four additional teams are handling tunnel excavation works 24/7
Current excavation output stands at:
- 5,000 to 6,000 cubic metres daily
- Expected to increase to 8,500 cubic metres in the next phase
Massive safety milestone reached
The RTA also revealed the project has been completed nearly:
- Eight million work hours
- With zero lost-time injuries reported
The workforce currently includes:
- 1,591 engineers, technicians and workers
- 221 machines and heavy equipment across sites
Tunnel inspired by Dubai’s skyline
Adding a creative touch to the infrastructure project, the inside of the tunnel will feature a mosaic mural designed by Emirati artist Maryam Hathboor.
The artwork is inspired by banknote-style illustrations showcasing Dubai’s skyline, blending public art with urban engineering.
For commuters frustrated by heavy traffic, this project could eventually become one of the city’s most game-changing transport upgrades yet.
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