Zhao-Zhou Li et al 2020 ApJ 894 10

By comparing theoretical simulations of Milky Way satellite distribution to 28 observed satellites, the Milky Way’s halo mass is estimated to greater precision and reliability than previously.

Franciele Carlesso et al 2020 ApJS 248 4

To quantify the total solar irradiance at the top of the atmosphere, we need radiometers whose sensors are coated in an efficient absorber; ultra-black Nickel–Phosphorus may be an ideal candidate for this material.

Yongmin Yoon and Myungshin Im 2020 ApJ 893 117

A study of galaxies in 105 galaxy clusters, 16 of which are interacting, suggests that the cluster–cluster interaction can simultaneously induce bars and star formation in disk galaxies.

P. Bennet et al 2020 ApJL 893 L9

Deep Hubble imaging of four faint and ultra-faint dwarf galaxy candidates in the vicinity of M101 show that they are background galaxies, verifying that M101 is very poor in satellites in comparison to the Milky Way and M31.

Kevin J. Zahnle et al 2020 Planet. Sci. J. 1 11

The highly reduced early atmosphere of Earth necessary for the origin of life may have been made possible by the “late veneer” — material accreted by Earth after the Moon-forming impact.

Paula Szkody et al 2020 AJ 159 198

The first year of testing and operation of the Zwicky Transient Facility has revealed 329 objects as known or candidate cataclysmic variables, with nearly half of the strong candidates lying within 10 degrees of the galactic plane.