Overview
- Peer-reviewed results in The Astrophysical Journal Letters confirm GRB 250702B as the longest gamma-ray burst observed.
- Follow-up across infrared, optical, X-ray and gamma-ray bands using VLT, Hubble, Gemini, Magellan and space missions localized the afterglow in a massive, dusty galaxy.
- Analysis indicates a narrow ultra-relativistic jet aimed toward Earth moving at least 99% of the speed of light.
- Heavy dust obscuration prevented detection in visible light, making infrared and high-energy measurements crucial to the characterization.
- Multiple progenitor scenarios remain under study, with current data not uniquely supporting any single explanation.