Comparison and Applications for the State-of-art Astrophysics Simulations: Evidence from THESAN and illustrisTNG

Abstract

The understandings of the formation of galaxy have been remarkably improved into a new level due to the simulations in astrophysics. Early models using simple N-body simulations were limited due to computational power. Later on, the development of algorithms had enhanced accuracy and scalability. In the modern era (2000s-present), due to the high-resolution simulation supported by projects including the MillenniumTNG and THESAN significantly enhanced the detailed studies of the formation and evolution of galaxy. This study compares the differences of application and comparison between the simulations of the two projects, the MillenniumTNG and THESAN, specific in the concept of high-redshift. While the two projects dive into deep using different methods and taking different angles, they share the same overarching goals of having further understanding of the early universe and the high-redshift galaxies. In particular, the two projects complement each other through their simulations and observations, pursuing better insights into the cosmos at large.