NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has captured a stunning image of a protostellar outflow, known as Herbig-Haro 49/50, which appears to align with a distant spiral galaxy. This rare alignment offers an unprecedented opportunity for scientists to study the fine structure of the jet and gain insights into how these energetic outflows influence their surroundings during the early stages of star formation.
Located about 625 light-years from Earth in the constellation Chamaeleon, Herbig-Haro 49/50 is a frothy-looking outflow from a nearby young star. Captured using Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera and Mid-Infrared Instrument, the composite image combines data to offer a remarkably detailed view of this dynamic region.
The outflow is thought to be driven by a Class I protostar known as Cederblad 110 IRS4, which is located roughly 1.5 light-years away from HH 49/50. Scientists have used Webb’s observations to study the protostar and obtain an inventory of its icy composition.
The alignment of Herbig-Haro 49/50 with the distant spiral galaxy offers a unique opportunity for scientists to examine the three-dimensional structure of the outflow as seen in near- and mid-infrared light. The image reveals the location of glowing hydrogen molecules, carbon monoxide molecules, and energized grains of dust, which will help astronomers to model the properties of the jet and understand its effects on the surrounding material.
This discovery highlights the importance of Webb’s sharp resolution in providing insights into the behavior of these energetic outflows. With this newfound understanding, scientists can better piece together the origins of galaxies, stars, and potentially life itself.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/webb-telescope-reveals-hidden-galaxy-behind-cosmic-tornado