While humankind isn't even close to unlocking all the mysteries of outer space, there's one phenomenon that's left astronomers especially perplexed: Fast Radio Bursts.
In a study released Tuesday by the University of Manchester, researchers say they've determined one Fast Radio Burst -- a quick flash of light that occurs at incredibly precise intervals -- reoccurs once every 157 days. The research team spent a full year monitoring deep space with the Lovell Telescope, recording 32 bursts of light from the mysterious source, known as FRB 121102. A closer view revealed the enigmatic flashes actually occur in quick patterns over a period of 90 days, followed by a 67-day pause. Then the cycle begins again, repeating the exact same pattern every time, according to astronomers.
The discovery of the repeating pattern has led the university's researchers to speculate the unexplained flashes are somehow connected to orbital motion, which would explain why the pattern repeats like clockwork. What entity is in orbit with a powerful flashlight remains a mystery.