The Invisible Architecture of the Universe, with Dr. Enrique Lopez Rodriguez

In this episode we step behind the scenes of modern astronomy to explore a side of the universe you can’t see, at least not directly.We sit down with Professor Enrique López Rodríguez, an extragalactic astronomer at the University of South Carolina and one of the leading researchers in the United States studying magnetic fields in galaxies.The conversation also dives into the complex behavior of supermassive black holes, some actively feeding and driving powerful outflows, others surprisingly quiet, and how these cosmic engines influence the evolution of entire galaxies.Along the way, we’ll look at how modern astronomy is mapping the hidden forces that connect the universe.And later in the show, we return to something a little closer to home with this week’s night sky, featuring the rising Flower Moon, bright evening planets, and a deep-sky tour through one of the richest regions of galaxies visible from Earth.Links mentioned:Enrique Lopez Rodriguez onlineSurvey of Extragalactic Magnetism with SOFIAConnect with us on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social or YouTube @TheStarTrailsPodcast.If you’re enjoying the show, consider sharing it with a friend! Want to help? Buy us a coffee! Also, check out music made for Star Trails on our Bandcamp page!Podcasting is better with RSS.com! If you’re planning to start your own podcast, use our RSS.com affiliate link for a discount, and to help support Star Trails.