Space
Across
- 3. Cluster A group of galaxies bound together by gravity. Galaxy clusters are some of the largest structures in the universe and can contain hundreds or thousands of galaxies, showcasing the vastness of cosmic scales.
- 6. A type of neutron star with an extremely strong magnetic field. Magnetars are known for their intense magnetic activity, occasionally producing powerful bursts of X-rays and gamma rays detectable from Earth.
- 7. Ray High-energy particles, primarily protons and atomic nuclei, that travel through space at nearly the speed of light. Cosmic rays originate from various sources, including supernovae and other energetic astrophysical events.
- 11. System A system of planets orbiting a star outside our solar system. Exoplanetary systems offer insights into the diversity of planetary arrangements and conditions, expanding our understanding of planetary systems beyond Earth.
- 12. Belt A region of space beyond Neptune that contains icy bodies, including Pluto and other dwarf planets. The Kuiper Belt is part of our solar system and serves as a reservoir of small, icy objects left over from its formation.
- 13. Matter Halo An invisible and massive structure surrounding galaxies, composed of dark matter. Dark matter halos exert gravitational forces that affect the motion of stars and galaxies, influencing the overall structure of the cosmos.
- 14. Dwarf The remnant core of a star that has exhausted its nuclear fuel. White dwarfs are dense and typically small, representing the final stage of evolution for stars with masses similar to or less than that of the sun.
- 15. Field A region of space that contains multiple nebulae—clouds of gas and dust illuminated by nearby stars. Nebula fields are visually stunning and often serve as the birthplaces of new stars within galaxies.
Down
- 1. A highly energetic and distant celestial object powered by an active supermassive black hole at its center. Quasars emit intense light and are among the most luminous objects observed in the cosmos.
- 2. Burst An intense burst of gamma-ray radiation originating from distant celestial events, such as supernovae or merging neutron stars. Gamma-ray bursts are among the most energetic phenomena observed in the universe.
- 4. Microwave Background Faint radiation filling the universe that originated shortly after the Big Bang. The cosmic microwave background provides valuable insights into the early stages of the universe and the conditions that led to its formation.
- 5. Cloud A region of space containing gas and dust between stars. Interstellar clouds serve as raw material for star formation and may vary in density, composition, and temperature, contributing to the diversity of cosmic environments.
- 8. Remnant The expanding remains of a massive star that has undergone a supernova explosion. Supernova remnants showcase the intense processes of stellar life cycles and contribute to the enrichment of interstellar space.
- 9. Filament A long, thread-like structure composed of gas, dust, and dark matter that connects galaxies within the cosmic web. Galactic filaments are part of the large-scale structure of the universe, linking cosmic components.
- 10. Wave Ripples in spacetime caused by the acceleration of massive objects, such as merging black holes or neutron stars. Gravitational waves provide a new way to observe the universe and confirm Einstein's theory of general relativity.