Astronomers expect SKA to map faint plasma of the cosmic web

Astronomers are preparing to employ the upcoming Square Kilometre Array to conduct detailed radio observations of low-density plasma in galaxy filaments and cluster outskirts, Sciencecast reports. The project aims to map the faint plasma that forms the cosmic web and extend the reach of current radio surveys. Recent detections of similar structures were made with LOFAR, uGMRT and MeerKAT.

Building on those earlier observations, scientists expect the SKA to provide a more comprehensive view of the intergalactic medium. The anticipated data could help clarify how matter is distributed across large-scale cosmic structures.