Theoretical astronomy[edit]
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Theoretical astronomers use several tools including analytical models and computational numerical simulations; each has its particular advantages. Analytical models of a process are generally better for giving broader insight into the heart of what is going on. Numerical models reveal the existence of phenomena and effects otherwise unobserved.[62][63]
Theorists in astronomy endeavor to create theoretical models and from the results predict observational consequences of those models. The observation of a phenomenon predicted by a model allows astronomers to select between several alternate or conflicting models as the one best able to describe the phenomena.
Theorists also try to generate or modify models to take into account new data. In the case of an inconsistency between the data and model's results, the general tendency is to try to make minimal modifications to the model so that it produces results that fit the data. In some cases, a large amount of inconsistent data over time may lead to total abandonment of a model.
Phenomena modeled by theoretical astronomers include: stellar dynamics and evolution; galaxy formation; large-scale distribution of matter in the Universe; origin of cosmic rays; general relativity and physical cosmology, including string cosmology and astroparticle physics. Astrophysical relativity serves as a tool to gauge the properties of large scale structures for which gravitation plays a significant role in physical phenomena investigated and as the basis for black hole (astro)physics and the study of gravitational waves.
Some widely accepted and studied theories and models in astronomy, now included in the Lambda-CDM model are the Big Bang, Cosmic inflation, dark matter, and fundamental theories of physics.
A few examples of this process:
| Physical process | Experimental tool | Theoretical model | Explains/predicts |
| Gravitation | Radio telescopes | Self-gravitating system | Emergence of a star system |
| Nuclear fusion | Spectroscopy | Stellar evolution | How the stars shine and how metals formed |
| The Big Bang | Hubble Space Telescope, COBE | Expanding universe | Age of the Universe |
| Quantum fluctuations | Cosmic inflation | Flatness problem | |
| Gravitational collapse | X-ray astronomy | General relativity | Black holes at the center of Andromeda galaxy |
| CNO cycle in stars | The dominant source of energy for massive star. |
Dark matter and dark energy are the current leading topics in astronomy,[64] as their discovery and controversy originated during the study of the galaxies.
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