GN20 is an important galaxy to astronomers as it was one of the first galaxies to conduct extensive research on active star formation. Observed at a time when the universe was only 1.8 billion years old, GN20 is known for its intense star formation rate of about 1,860 solar masses per year.
Using the spacecraft’s capabilities, the team discovered a dense, luminous core surrounded by a gaseous shell in which numerous stars are grouped. The rate of star formation in this central structure alone is about 500 solar masses per year and has been going on for 100 million years. The “core” is less than 2,600 light-years in diameter, and the envelope of gas spans 23,000 light-years.
Interestingly, the center of the gaseous envelope has shifted from the center of the star region, indicating a recent collision with another galaxy.
Source: Ferra
I am a professional journalist and content creator with extensive experience writing for news websites. I currently work as an author at Gadget Onus, where I specialize in covering hot news topics. My written pieces have been published on some of the biggest media outlets around the world, including The Guardian and BBC News.
