Webb Telescope Reveals Mysterious Gas Jets from Centaur 29P

NASA's James Webb Space Telescope uncovers new insights into the composition and activity of Centaur 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1.

Centaurs are icy celestial objects orbiting between Jupiter and Neptune, and are considered remnants of the early solar system.
The Webb telescope detected new jets of carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide emanating from Centaur 29P, which are not driven by water sublimation due to the cold temperatures.
Researchers speculate that the centaur may consist of multiple pieces, explaining the varied gas emissions observed.
Observations suggest that Centaur 29P's nucleus may be an aggregate of distinct objects with different compositions.
Further study over time is needed to understand the mechanisms behind the centaur's periodic outbursts and gas emissions.