LOFAR maps the magnetic backbone of a galaxy cluster for the first time

Using 224 hours of LOFAR radio observations, astronomers produced the deepest map yet of the galaxy cluster Abell 2255 and reconstructed its magnetic field from core to outskirts for the first time. The results show the magnetic field is shaped by gas motions during cluster formation, with field lines tracing extended radio emissions and showing tangential orientations in regions affected by shocks, providing new insight into how magnetic fields and the largest cosmic structures grow. The study is accepted for publication in Astronomy & Astrophysics and is available on arXiv.