The James Webb Space Telescope has detected an interesting phenomenon in deep space – an object resembling a question mark. The news was published on the iflScience portal and has sparked a lively debate.
Unusually shaped spot noticed under the image of Herbig-Haro 46/47 – these are two young stars that have been the subject of research for many years. Located at the edge of a dark nebula, they look rather unremarkable in ordinary light. However, the infrared capabilities of the telescope allowed us to see not only them, but also a host of other background objects outside the Milky Way.
Among the many background objects, one in the shape of a question mark stood out. Such objects, which do not have the six characteristic beams, are outside our Galaxy.
The gravitational dance of the galaxies
The most likely hypothesis to explain the bizarre shape of this object is a merger of galaxies. Multiple galaxies interacting gravitationally form unique and sometimes strange configurations. Similar phenomena have been observed much closer to our Milky Way.
This object could be very distant from Earth, given its colour and characteristics. Nearby merging galaxies are usually blue due to the activity of their young stars, although this colour can sometimes be distorted by cosmic dust.
It is not yet known whether this mysterious object will be studied further. The James Webb Telescope’s operating time is already spread over the coming months and even years.
Prepared by Mary Clair
