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4w ago

Webb Telescope Reveals Intricate Details of 'Cosmic Tornado' and Hidden Galaxy

The James Webb Space Telescope's high-resolution imaging of Herbig-Haro 49/50 uncovers molecular activity, structural features, and a distant barred-spiral galaxy, advancing our understanding of star formation and galactic dynamics.

Image
The cosmic tornado. Image: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI.

Overview

  • Herbig-Haro 49/50, located 630 light-years away in the Chamaeleon I Cloud complex, is a protostellar outflow driven by the young star Cederblad 110 IRS4.
  • Webb's imaging identified glowing hydrogen and carbon monoxide molecules, energized dust grains, and arc-shaped features tracing the jet's impact on its surroundings.
  • The previously unclear 'fuzzy object' at the tip of the outflow was revealed to be a distant face-on barred-spiral galaxy with regions of active star formation.
  • The Chamaeleon I Cloud complex, where HH 49/50 resides, offers insights into environments similar to where the Sun likely formed.
  • The Webb Telescope, a collaboration between NASA, ESA, and CSA, showcases advancements in infrared imaging and international scientific cooperation.