What Mysterious Signals from Space Challenge Our Understanding of the Universe?

Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are one of the most enigmatic phenomena in astrophysics, identified as brief, intense bursts of radio waves that last only milliseconds but can release as much energy as the Sun emits in an entire day. First discovered in 2007, these signals are believed to originate from distant galaxies, although their precise origins remain a mystery. Theories range from highly magnetized neutron stars to potential technological signatures from advanced extraterrestrial civilizations. Notably, one FRB, known as FRB 121102, was found to repeat, leading astronomers to study it more closely, resulting in significant breakthroughs in understanding these cosmic enigmas. The ongoing research into FRBs not only challenges our comprehension of cosmic phenomena but also offers insights into the fundamental workings of the universe itself.