NASA has just released a stunning new image of the Sombrero Galaxy.
POT did it again. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), a cutting-edge gem of astronomical observation, has captured a new image of the Sombrero Galaxy, also known as Messier 104 or M104. This photo is not only impressive, but also reveals new details about one of the most intriguing galaxies in the Universe..
From hat to goal: a new look
The Sombrero Galaxy, known for its shape similar to a classic mariachi hat when observed in visible light, completely changed its appearance under the lens of the James Webb Telescope. Now, thanks to its ability to capture light in the mid-infrared spectrum, the structure more closely resembles an archery target with a glowing core in the center..
This is the core, by the way, It is a supermassive black hole, a cosmic giant that dominates the heart of this galaxy, located 30 million light years from Earth.in the constellation Virgo.
Additionally, the new image shows the galaxy’s outer ring in never-before-seen detail. What once looked like a smooth, uniform surface is now intricate “clumps” of dust.a discovery that may hold clues to the evolution of this celestial region.
The Science of Beauty
The dust visible in the Sombrero Galaxy contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, molecules that are often associated with the formation of young stars. However, Astronomers believe that this galaxy is not particularly active in creating starsgenerating less than one solar mass per year, well below the Milky Way’s average of about two.
This conclusion baffles experts who They are now trying to understand how this apparently dormant star formation structure exhibits such dynamic chemical signals.
Universe in the background
Another interesting detail of the image is the background. For galaxy hatThe telescope captured a parade of smaller galaxies, each with a unique shape and color.. Astronomers are analyzing these galaxies to calculate their distances and characteristics, opening a new window into the deep Universe.
James Webb’s legacy
Capturing the Sombrero Galaxy joins James Webb Telescope’s list of achievementswhich in a short time changed our understanding of space. From imaging the most distant galaxy ever observed to detailed images of UranusWebb never ceases to amaze us with his ability to unravel the mysteries of the universe.
This discovery is further evidence that As humanity advances in technology and knowledge, we continue to find in space a constant reminder of our curiosity and fascination with the unknown.