The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has unveiled breathtaking images of 19 spiral galaxies, providing an unprecedented level of detail for astronomers. The JWST’s unique ability to observe the universe in various infrared wavelengths, including near-infrared and mid-infrared, offers a revealing glimpse into the stars, gas, and dust intricately woven within each galaxy’s structure.
Approximately 60% of all galaxies are believed to be spiral galaxies, and our solar system resides within one of the spiral arms of the Milky Way. The JWST’s observations contribute to the understanding of star formation and the evolutionary processes shaping spiral galaxies, offering insights into our own galactic home.
These observations are part of the Physics at High Angular resolution in Nearby GalaxieS (PHANGS) project, a collaborative effort involving over 100 astronomers globally. The project utilizes data from various telescopes, including the Hubble Space Telescope, the European Space Observatory’s Very Large Telescope’s MUSE instrument, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array in Chile.
In the new images, each galaxy is seen face-on, displaying spiral arms adorned with stars. The center of each galaxy features clusters of old stars or supermassive black holes, adding a layer of complexity to these celestial formations.
Combining data from different telescopes enables astronomers to conduct observations across visible, ultraviolet, and radio light wavelengths. The addition of the JWST’s infrared insights addresses observational gaps, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics within galaxies.
A closer look inside the spiral galaxies was facilitated by the JWST’s Near-Infrared Camera, capturing millions of stars in sparkling blue clusters spread throughout the arms of the galaxies. Additionally, the Mid-Infrared Instrument of the JWST highlighted glowing dust surrounding stars and showcased red still-forming stars cocooned in the gas and dust essential for their growth.
Shambhu Kumar is a science communicator, making complex scientific topics accessible to all. His articles explore breakthroughs in various scientific disciplines, from space exploration to cutting-edge research.
