Revolutionary Method for Calculating Cosmic Distances Unveiled
Chinese astronomers have proposed a new method of measuring distances in the universe using a specific subset of RR Lyrae stars called double-period RR Lyrae stars (RRd stars). By analyzing the pulsations and brightness of these stars, astronomers can establish a period-luminosity relation independent of the elemental abundance, eliminating the need for spectroscopic observations. This new method could increase the accuracy of distance measurements to nearby galaxies by 1-2%, providing valuable insights into the evolution of the universe and the role of dark matter.