Dr. Sukanya Chakrabarti, the Pei-Ling Chan Endowed Chair at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), has collaborated on a study that utilizes young stars to create a more precise map of the outer gas disk of the Milky Way galaxy.

The research, presented at the 246th meeting of the American Astronomical Society, introduces a novel technique called 'pattern matching' that uses Cepheid variable stars to establish distances in the galaxy's spiral arms.

Traditionally, mapping the hydrogen distribution in the Milky Way has been essential for comprehending its dynamics, star formation, and evolution. The study, conducted in partnership with Dr. Peter Craig from Michigan State University, incorporates data from the European Space Agency's Gaia mission.

Unlike kinematic distances that rely on velocity models, the new method of pattern matching provides a more accurate representation of the gas distribution in the galaxy. By matching young stars with gas clumps, the study reveals a 'flocculent' structure in the Milky Way's gas disk, highlighting its complexity.

Analysis of simulated spiral galaxies indicates that this new approach offers 24% greater accuracy in distance measurements compared to traditional methods, shedding light on large-scale disturbances in the gas disk and interactions with dwarf galaxies.

Utilizing over 37,000 stars in the Milky Way, the study paves the way for further refinement of this innovative distance measurement technique for a more comprehensive understanding of the galaxy's structure.