Brightest Gamma-Ray Burst Ever, Triggered by Supernova, Raises New Questions

Astronomers using the JWST have confirmed that the historic gamma-ray burst, known as the BOAT, was caused by a supernova, though it surprisingly did not produce heavy elements like gold or platinum.

The BOAT, the brightest gamma-ray burst ever recorded, was caused by the collapse of a massive star into a supernova.
Despite the extraordinary brightness of the GRB, the supernova itself appeared normal compared to others linked with less energetic bursts.
Researchers were puzzled by the absence of heavy elements such as gold and platinum, which are often expected in such violent cosmic events.
The narrowness of the jets from the supernova, which focus the burst's energy, may explain the unprecedented brightness of the GRB.
Future studies with the JWST will explore whether less intense GRBs produce heavy elements, addressing key questions about the origin of these elements in the universe.