Science and Technology Science and Technology
Tue, December 17, 2024
Mon, December 16, 2024

Webb finds planet-forming disks lived longer in early universe


Published on 2024-12-16 12:42:26 - MSN
  Print publication without navigation

  • The NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope just solved a conundrum by proving a controversial finding made with the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope more than 20 years ago.

The article from MSN discusses a significant discovery by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) regarding the longevity of planet-forming disks in the early universe. Researchers found that these disks, which are crucial for the formation of planets, existed much longer than previously thought, particularly around stars in the Small Magellanic Cloud, a dwarf galaxy near the Milky Way. This finding challenges existing models of planet formation, suggesting that the process might take longer under different cosmic conditions, such as lower metallicity environments. The study, led by researchers from the University of Cambridge, utilized JWST's advanced infrared capabilities to observe these ancient disks, providing insights into how planets might have formed around stars when the universe was still young. This discovery not only extends our understanding of the timeline for planet formation but also hints at the possibility that planet formation could be more common and varied than previously estimated.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/science/astronomy/webb-finds-planet-forming-disks-lived-longer-in-early-universe/ar-AA1vXMjb ]
Contributing Sources