Launched in December 2021 and in service since 2022, the James Webb space telescope (JWST) offers us a new look at the universe and its mysteries. Having taken over from the aging Hubble, he often amazes us by forcing us to have a new look at deep space. Recently, he photographed a “Medusa” galaxy at some 12 billion light years.
This is particularly the case for the classification of galaxies. There are three main types of them:
- Elliptical galaxies
- Spiral galaxies
- And irregular galaxies
Within these categories, we distinguish sub-clashes that make it possible to specify the nature of a particular galaxy. For example, the Milky Way is a spiral galaxy, just like Andromeda.
A “jellyfish” galaxy therefore enters the category of galaxies with an irregular form. We name it thus because, in an image we would seem to see tentacles being attached to it a bit like the sea animal that can be met on vacation for example.
These tentacles do not appear by chance, but are the consequence of moving a galaxy in the middle of other galaxies. In fact, what we see are the gas clouds where you can find many stars formed and in formations, which are pushed outwards of the galaxy therefore revealing a plume that reminds of a tentacle.
Thus, the galactic jellyfish soberly named Cosmos2020-635829 would have four tentacles with regard to the observations of James Webb.
A way to study galactic life
Beyond the beautiful images and to think that a jellyfish-shaped galaxy strolls somewhere in the universe, such a discovery can be interesting for the study of the development of a galaxy as it moves in the galactic environment. That and studying the relationship and potentially the influence it could have on the formation of the stars that populate this galaxy.
Thus, the cosmos2020-635829 galaxy will be able to be studied from top to bottom thanks to the instruments of James Webb and may reveal secrets of which we ignored the existence until then.
The study of deep space by the space telescope will also be able to indicate to us whether such a form is rare or not and therefore give us clues on how and why this type of galaxy is formed in the universe.
Source: James Webb / Livesciencece
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
