Cassiopeia A: James Webb reveals details of supernova remnant in new image

Remainder Cassiopeia A (Cas A) is the result of the explosion of a star that went supernova. and is currently considered one of the most studied cosmic objects by astronomers. However, a recent observation by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has revealed more valuable information about the light distances of the dying star Cas A.

Supernova remnant data is detailed through different wavelengths of light, but spacecraft have not yet been able to reveal all its details. In James Webb’s new research, scientists using the near-infrared camera (NIRCam) were able to detect tiny knots of gas and light echoes left over from the star explosion.

In the new image published by NASA, It is possible to observe some impressive features of Cas A, such as the emission of ionized gas in the form of circular holes in white and purple colors. Astronomers also noted that the photo does not show a green light loop in the center of the remnant’s inner shell seen in another image collected by JWST’s mid-infrared (MIRI) camera.

“With NIRCam’s resolution, we can now see how the dying star completely shattered when it exploded, leaving behind filaments that resemble tiny shards of glass. After working on Cas A for so many years, it is truly incredible to unravel these details now,” study leader and Purdue University partner Danny Milisavljevic said in an official statement. he said:

James Webb and Cassiopeia A

In April, MIRI had already revealed new features of Cassiopeia A’s inner layer, but some of these cannot be seen by NIRCam, so the greenish core is not visible in the new image.

But the near-infrared camera also shows different activities of the cosmic object. For example, the orange and light pink parts show details of Cas A’s innermost layer, including gas nodes composed of sulfur, oxygen, argon, and neon.

According to the official statement from the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), scientists were also surprised by the large bubble in the lower corner of the image photographed by NIRCam. This is Baby Cas A, a type of remnant created by the parent supernova.

“This is a light echo where light from the star’s long-ago explosion reaches and heats the distant dust, which glows as it cools. The complexity of the powder model and the apparent closeness of Baby Cas A to Cas A are of particular interest to researchers. “In fact, Baby Cas A lies approximately 170 light-years behind the supernova remnant.”

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