Computational astrophysics for the future: An open, modular approach with agreed standards would facilitate astrophysical discovery

09/07/2018

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by   Simon Portegies Zwart, et al.

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Scientific discovery is mediated by ideas that, after being formulated in hypotheses, can be tested, validated, and quantified before they eventually lead to accepted concepts. Computer-mediated discovery in astrophysics is no exception, but antiquated code that is only intelligible to scientists who were involved in writing it is holding up scientific discovery in the field. A bold initiative is needed to modernize astrophysics code and make it transparent and useful beyond a small group of scientists. (abridged)