A Comparative Analysis of Illustris TNG and THESAN Cosmological Simulations

Cosmological simulations play a crucial role in understanding the evolution of the universe, offering valuable insights when compared with observational data. With advancements in computational capabilities and data-gathering techniques, simulations have evolved to model larger volumes and finer details of cosmic structures. This review compares two prominent simulations, Illustris TNG and THESAN, focusing on their algorithms and factors considered. Illustris TNG primarily employs smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH), while THESAN utilizes moving mesh hydrodynamics (MMH), each offering unique advantages in simulating different aspects of the universe. Furthermore, THESAN incorporates additional factors such as cosmological dust and sophisticated radiation transport algorithms, enhancing its accuracy in predicting early galaxies and stars. The comparison underscores the impact of algorithmic differences and the consideration of various factors on simulation accuracy. This analysis highlights the importance of understanding these specifications in designing simulations that effectively capture the complexities of the cosmos.