<\/p>\n
Once upon a time, the core of a massive star collapsed, creating a shockwave that blasted outward, ripping the star apart as it went. When the shockwave reached the star\u2019s surface, it punched through, generating a brief, intense pulse of X-rays and ultraviolet light that traveled outward into the surrounding space. About 350 years later, that pulse of light has reached interstellar material, illuminating it, warming it, and causing it to glow in infrared light.<\/p>\n
NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope has observed that infrared glow, revealing fine details resembling the knots and whorls of wood grain. These observations are allowing astronomers to map the true 3D structure of this interstellar dust and gas (known as the interstellar medium) for the first time.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe were pretty shocked to see this level of detail,\u201d said Jacob Jencson of Caltech\/IPAC in Pasadena, principal investigator of the science program<\/a>.<\/p>\n\u201cWe see layers like an onion,\u201d added Josh Peek of the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, a member of the science team. \u201cWe think every dense, dusty region that we see, and most of the ones we don\u2019t see, look like this on the inside. We just have never been able to look inside them before.\u201d<\/p>\nThe team is presenting their findings in a press conference at the 245th<\/sup> meeting of the American Astronomical Society in Washington.<\/p>\n\u201cEven as a star dies, its light endures\u2014echoing across the cosmos. It\u2019s been an extraordinary three years since we launched NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope. Every image, every discovery, shows a portrait not only of the majesty of the universe but the power of the NASA team and the promise of international partnerships. This groundbreaking mission, NASA\u2019s largest international space science collaboration, is a true testament to NASA\u2019s ingenuity, teamwork, and pursuit of excellence,\u201d said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. \u201cWhat a privilege it has been to oversee this monumental effort, shaped by the tireless dedication of thousands of scientists and engineers around the globe. This latest image beautifully captures the lasting legacy of Webb\u2014a keyhole into the past and a mission that will inspire generations to come.\u201d<\/p>\nImage A: Light Echoes Near Cassiopeia A (NIRCam)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nThese shimmering cosmic curtains show interstellar gas and dust that has been heated by the flashbulb explosion of a long-ago supernova. The gas then glows infrared light in what is known as a thermal light echo. As the supernova illumination travels through space at the speed of light, the echo appears to expand. NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope observed this light echo in the vicinity of the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A three separate times, in essence creating a 3D scan of the interstellar material. Note that the field of view in the top row is rotated slightly clockwise relative to the middle and bottom rows, due to the roll angle of the Webb telescope when the observations were taken.<\/div>\nNASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, J. Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nVideo A: Light Echoes Near Cassiopeia A (NIRCam)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>This time-lapse video using data from NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope highlights the evolution of one light echo in the vicinity of the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A. A light echo is created when a star explodes or erupts, flashing light into surrounding clumps of interstellar dust and causing them to shine in an ever-expanding pattern. Webb\u2019s exquisite resolution not only shows incredible detail within these light echoes, but also shows their expansion over the course of just a few weeks \u2013 a remarkably short timescale considering that most cosmic targets remain unchanged over a human lifetime.Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, J. Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nTaking a CT Scan<\/h2>\nThe images from Webb\u2019s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) highlight a phenomenon known as a light echo. A light echo is created when a star explodes or erupts, flashing light into surrounding clumps of dust and causing them to shine in an ever-expanding pattern. Light echoes at visible wavelengths (such as those seen around the star V838 Monocerotis<\/a>) are due to light reflecting off of interstellar material. In contrast, light echoes at infrared wavelengths are caused when the dust is warmed by energetic radiation and then glows.<\/p>\nThe researchers targeted a light echo that had previously been observed<\/a> by NASA\u2019s retired Spitzer Space Telescope. It is one of dozens of light echoes seen near the Cassiopeia A supernova remnant \u2013 the remains of the star that exploded. The light echo is coming from unrelated material that is behind Cassiopeia A, not material that was ejected when the star exploded.<\/p>\nThe most obvious features in the Webb images are tightly packed sheets. These filaments show structures on remarkably small scales of about 400 astronomical units, or less than one-hundredth of a light-year. (An astronomical unit, or AU, is the average Earth-Sun distance. Neptune\u2019s orbit is 60 AU in diameter.)<\/p>\n\u201cWe did not know that the interstellar medium had structures on that small of a scale, let alone that it was sheet-like,\u201d said Peek.<\/p>\nThese sheet-like structures may be influenced by interstellar magnetic fields. The images also show dense, tightly wound regions that resemble knots in wood grain. These may represent magnetic \u201cislands\u201d embedded within the more streamlined magnetic fields that suffuse the interstellar medium.<\/p>\n\u201cThis is the astronomical equivalent of a medical CT scan,\u201d explained Armin Rest of the Space Telescope Science Institute, a member of the science team. \u201cWe have three slices taken at three different times, which will allow us to study the true 3D structure. It will completely change the way we study the interstellar medium.\u201d<\/p>\nImage B: Cassiopeia A (Spitzer with Webb Insets)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nThis background image of the region around supernova remnant Cassiopeia A was released by NASA\u2019s Spitzer Space Telescope in 2008. By taking multiple images of this region over three years with Spitzer, researchers were able to examine a number of light echoes. Now, NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope has imaged some of these light echoes in much greater detail. Insets at lower right show one epoch of Webb observations, while the inset at left shows a Webb image of the central supernova remnant released in 2023.<\/div>\nSpitzer Image: NASA\/JPL-Caltech\/Y. Kim (Univ. of Arizona\/Univ. of Chicago). Cassiopeia A Inset: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Danny Milisavljevic (Purdue University), Ilse De Looze (UGent), Tea Temim (Princeton University). Light Echoes Inset: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, J. Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC).<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nFuture Work<\/h2>\nThe team\u2019s science program also includes spectroscopic observations using Webb\u2019s MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument). They plan to target the light echo multiple times, weeks or months apart, to observe how it evolves as the light echo passes by.<\/p>\n\u201cWe can observe the same patch of dust before, during, and after it\u2019s illuminated by the echo and try to look for any changes in the compositions or states of the molecules, including whether some molecules or even the smallest dust grains are destroyed,\u201d said Jencson.<\/p>\nInfrared light echoes are also extremely rare, since they require a specific type of supernova explosion with a short pulse of energetic radiation. NASA\u2019s upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope<\/a> will conduct a survey of the galactic plane that may find evidence of additional infrared light echoes for Webb to study in detail.<\/p>\nThe James Webb Space Telescope is the world\u2019s premier space science observatory. Webb is solving mysteries in our solar system, looking beyond to distant worlds around other stars, and probing the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. Webb is an international program led by NASA with its partners, ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency).<\/em><\/p>\nDownloads<\/h2>\nRight click any image to save it or open a larger version<\/strong> in a new tab\/window via the browser\u2019s popup menu.<\/p>\nView\/Download all image products at all resolutions<\/a><\/strong> for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.<\/p>\nMedia Contacts<\/h2>\nLaura\u00a0Betz<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0laura.e.betz@nasa.gov<\/a>NASA\u2019s Goddard Space Flight Center<\/a>, Greenbelt, Md.<\/p>\nChristine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u201cWe see layers like an onion,\u201d added Josh Peek of the Space Telescope Science Institute in Baltimore, a member of the science team. \u201cWe think every dense, dusty region that we see, and most of the ones we don\u2019t see, look like this on the inside. We just have never been able to look inside them before.\u201d<\/p>\n
The team is presenting their findings in a press conference at the 245th<\/sup> meeting of the American Astronomical Society in Washington.<\/p>\n\u201cEven as a star dies, its light endures\u2014echoing across the cosmos. It\u2019s been an extraordinary three years since we launched NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope. Every image, every discovery, shows a portrait not only of the majesty of the universe but the power of the NASA team and the promise of international partnerships. This groundbreaking mission, NASA\u2019s largest international space science collaboration, is a true testament to NASA\u2019s ingenuity, teamwork, and pursuit of excellence,\u201d said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. \u201cWhat a privilege it has been to oversee this monumental effort, shaped by the tireless dedication of thousands of scientists and engineers around the globe. This latest image beautifully captures the lasting legacy of Webb\u2014a keyhole into the past and a mission that will inspire generations to come.\u201d<\/p>\nImage A: Light Echoes Near Cassiopeia A (NIRCam)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nThese shimmering cosmic curtains show interstellar gas and dust that has been heated by the flashbulb explosion of a long-ago supernova. The gas then glows infrared light in what is known as a thermal light echo. As the supernova illumination travels through space at the speed of light, the echo appears to expand. NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope observed this light echo in the vicinity of the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A three separate times, in essence creating a 3D scan of the interstellar material. Note that the field of view in the top row is rotated slightly clockwise relative to the middle and bottom rows, due to the roll angle of the Webb telescope when the observations were taken.<\/div>\nNASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, J. Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nVideo A: Light Echoes Near Cassiopeia A (NIRCam)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>This time-lapse video using data from NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope highlights the evolution of one light echo in the vicinity of the supernova remnant Cassiopeia A. A light echo is created when a star explodes or erupts, flashing light into surrounding clumps of interstellar dust and causing them to shine in an ever-expanding pattern. Webb\u2019s exquisite resolution not only shows incredible detail within these light echoes, but also shows their expansion over the course of just a few weeks \u2013 a remarkably short timescale considering that most cosmic targets remain unchanged over a human lifetime.Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, J. Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\nTaking a CT Scan<\/h2>\nThe images from Webb\u2019s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) highlight a phenomenon known as a light echo. A light echo is created when a star explodes or erupts, flashing light into surrounding clumps of dust and causing them to shine in an ever-expanding pattern. Light echoes at visible wavelengths (such as those seen around the star V838 Monocerotis<\/a>) are due to light reflecting off of interstellar material. In contrast, light echoes at infrared wavelengths are caused when the dust is warmed by energetic radiation and then glows.<\/p>\nThe researchers targeted a light echo that had previously been observed<\/a> by NASA\u2019s retired Spitzer Space Telescope. It is one of dozens of light echoes seen near the Cassiopeia A supernova remnant \u2013 the remains of the star that exploded. The light echo is coming from unrelated material that is behind Cassiopeia A, not material that was ejected when the star exploded.<\/p>\nThe most obvious features in the Webb images are tightly packed sheets. These filaments show structures on remarkably small scales of about 400 astronomical units, or less than one-hundredth of a light-year. (An astronomical unit, or AU, is the average Earth-Sun distance. Neptune\u2019s orbit is 60 AU in diameter.)<\/p>\n\u201cWe did not know that the interstellar medium had structures on that small of a scale, let alone that it was sheet-like,\u201d said Peek.<\/p>\nThese sheet-like structures may be influenced by interstellar magnetic fields. The images also show dense, tightly wound regions that resemble knots in wood grain. These may represent magnetic \u201cislands\u201d embedded within the more streamlined magnetic fields that suffuse the interstellar medium.<\/p>\n\u201cThis is the astronomical equivalent of a medical CT scan,\u201d explained Armin Rest of the Space Telescope Science Institute, a member of the science team. \u201cWe have three slices taken at three different times, which will allow us to study the true 3D structure. It will completely change the way we study the interstellar medium.\u201d<\/p>\nImage B: Cassiopeia A (Spitzer with Webb Insets)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nThis background image of the region around supernova remnant Cassiopeia A was released by NASA\u2019s Spitzer Space Telescope in 2008. By taking multiple images of this region over three years with Spitzer, researchers were able to examine a number of light echoes. Now, NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope has imaged some of these light echoes in much greater detail. Insets at lower right show one epoch of Webb observations, while the inset at left shows a Webb image of the central supernova remnant released in 2023.<\/div>\nSpitzer Image: NASA\/JPL-Caltech\/Y. Kim (Univ. of Arizona\/Univ. of Chicago). Cassiopeia A Inset: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Danny Milisavljevic (Purdue University), Ilse De Looze (UGent), Tea Temim (Princeton University). Light Echoes Inset: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, J. Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC).<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nFuture Work<\/h2>\nThe team\u2019s science program also includes spectroscopic observations using Webb\u2019s MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument). They plan to target the light echo multiple times, weeks or months apart, to observe how it evolves as the light echo passes by.<\/p>\n\u201cWe can observe the same patch of dust before, during, and after it\u2019s illuminated by the echo and try to look for any changes in the compositions or states of the molecules, including whether some molecules or even the smallest dust grains are destroyed,\u201d said Jencson.<\/p>\nInfrared light echoes are also extremely rare, since they require a specific type of supernova explosion with a short pulse of energetic radiation. NASA\u2019s upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope<\/a> will conduct a survey of the galactic plane that may find evidence of additional infrared light echoes for Webb to study in detail.<\/p>\nThe James Webb Space Telescope is the world\u2019s premier space science observatory. Webb is solving mysteries in our solar system, looking beyond to distant worlds around other stars, and probing the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. Webb is an international program led by NASA with its partners, ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency).<\/em><\/p>\nDownloads<\/h2>\nRight click any image to save it or open a larger version<\/strong> in a new tab\/window via the browser\u2019s popup menu.<\/p>\nView\/Download all image products at all resolutions<\/a><\/strong> for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.<\/p>\nMedia Contacts<\/h2>\nLaura\u00a0Betz<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0laura.e.betz@nasa.gov<\/a>NASA\u2019s Goddard Space Flight Center<\/a>, Greenbelt, Md.<\/p>\nChristine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
\u201cEven as a star dies, its light endures\u2014echoing across the cosmos. It\u2019s been an extraordinary three years since we launched NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope. Every image, every discovery, shows a portrait not only of the majesty of the universe but the power of the NASA team and the promise of international partnerships. This groundbreaking mission, NASA\u2019s largest international space science collaboration, is a true testament to NASA\u2019s ingenuity, teamwork, and pursuit of excellence,\u201d said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. \u201cWhat a privilege it has been to oversee this monumental effort, shaped by the tireless dedication of thousands of scientists and engineers around the globe. This latest image beautifully captures the lasting legacy of Webb\u2014a keyhole into the past and a mission that will inspire generations to come.\u201d<\/p>\n
The images from Webb\u2019s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) highlight a phenomenon known as a light echo. A light echo is created when a star explodes or erupts, flashing light into surrounding clumps of dust and causing them to shine in an ever-expanding pattern. Light echoes at visible wavelengths (such as those seen around the star V838 Monocerotis<\/a>) are due to light reflecting off of interstellar material. In contrast, light echoes at infrared wavelengths are caused when the dust is warmed by energetic radiation and then glows.<\/p>\nThe researchers targeted a light echo that had previously been observed<\/a> by NASA\u2019s retired Spitzer Space Telescope. It is one of dozens of light echoes seen near the Cassiopeia A supernova remnant \u2013 the remains of the star that exploded. The light echo is coming from unrelated material that is behind Cassiopeia A, not material that was ejected when the star exploded.<\/p>\nThe most obvious features in the Webb images are tightly packed sheets. These filaments show structures on remarkably small scales of about 400 astronomical units, or less than one-hundredth of a light-year. (An astronomical unit, or AU, is the average Earth-Sun distance. Neptune\u2019s orbit is 60 AU in diameter.)<\/p>\n\u201cWe did not know that the interstellar medium had structures on that small of a scale, let alone that it was sheet-like,\u201d said Peek.<\/p>\nThese sheet-like structures may be influenced by interstellar magnetic fields. The images also show dense, tightly wound regions that resemble knots in wood grain. These may represent magnetic \u201cislands\u201d embedded within the more streamlined magnetic fields that suffuse the interstellar medium.<\/p>\n\u201cThis is the astronomical equivalent of a medical CT scan,\u201d explained Armin Rest of the Space Telescope Science Institute, a member of the science team. \u201cWe have three slices taken at three different times, which will allow us to study the true 3D structure. It will completely change the way we study the interstellar medium.\u201d<\/p>\nImage B: Cassiopeia A (Spitzer with Webb Insets)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nThis background image of the region around supernova remnant Cassiopeia A was released by NASA\u2019s Spitzer Space Telescope in 2008. By taking multiple images of this region over three years with Spitzer, researchers were able to examine a number of light echoes. Now, NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope has imaged some of these light echoes in much greater detail. Insets at lower right show one epoch of Webb observations, while the inset at left shows a Webb image of the central supernova remnant released in 2023.<\/div>\nSpitzer Image: NASA\/JPL-Caltech\/Y. Kim (Univ. of Arizona\/Univ. of Chicago). Cassiopeia A Inset: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Danny Milisavljevic (Purdue University), Ilse De Looze (UGent), Tea Temim (Princeton University). Light Echoes Inset: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, J. Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC).<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nFuture Work<\/h2>\nThe team\u2019s science program also includes spectroscopic observations using Webb\u2019s MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument). They plan to target the light echo multiple times, weeks or months apart, to observe how it evolves as the light echo passes by.<\/p>\n\u201cWe can observe the same patch of dust before, during, and after it\u2019s illuminated by the echo and try to look for any changes in the compositions or states of the molecules, including whether some molecules or even the smallest dust grains are destroyed,\u201d said Jencson.<\/p>\nInfrared light echoes are also extremely rare, since they require a specific type of supernova explosion with a short pulse of energetic radiation. NASA\u2019s upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope<\/a> will conduct a survey of the galactic plane that may find evidence of additional infrared light echoes for Webb to study in detail.<\/p>\nThe James Webb Space Telescope is the world\u2019s premier space science observatory. Webb is solving mysteries in our solar system, looking beyond to distant worlds around other stars, and probing the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. Webb is an international program led by NASA with its partners, ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency).<\/em><\/p>\nDownloads<\/h2>\nRight click any image to save it or open a larger version<\/strong> in a new tab\/window via the browser\u2019s popup menu.<\/p>\nView\/Download all image products at all resolutions<\/a><\/strong> for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.<\/p>\nMedia Contacts<\/h2>\nLaura\u00a0Betz<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0laura.e.betz@nasa.gov<\/a>NASA\u2019s Goddard Space Flight Center<\/a>, Greenbelt, Md.<\/p>\nChristine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
The researchers targeted a light echo that had previously been observed<\/a> by NASA\u2019s retired Spitzer Space Telescope. It is one of dozens of light echoes seen near the Cassiopeia A supernova remnant \u2013 the remains of the star that exploded. The light echo is coming from unrelated material that is behind Cassiopeia A, not material that was ejected when the star exploded.<\/p>\nThe most obvious features in the Webb images are tightly packed sheets. These filaments show structures on remarkably small scales of about 400 astronomical units, or less than one-hundredth of a light-year. (An astronomical unit, or AU, is the average Earth-Sun distance. Neptune\u2019s orbit is 60 AU in diameter.)<\/p>\n\u201cWe did not know that the interstellar medium had structures on that small of a scale, let alone that it was sheet-like,\u201d said Peek.<\/p>\nThese sheet-like structures may be influenced by interstellar magnetic fields. The images also show dense, tightly wound regions that resemble knots in wood grain. These may represent magnetic \u201cislands\u201d embedded within the more streamlined magnetic fields that suffuse the interstellar medium.<\/p>\n\u201cThis is the astronomical equivalent of a medical CT scan,\u201d explained Armin Rest of the Space Telescope Science Institute, a member of the science team. \u201cWe have three slices taken at three different times, which will allow us to study the true 3D structure. It will completely change the way we study the interstellar medium.\u201d<\/p>\nImage B: Cassiopeia A (Spitzer with Webb Insets)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\nThis background image of the region around supernova remnant Cassiopeia A was released by NASA\u2019s Spitzer Space Telescope in 2008. By taking multiple images of this region over three years with Spitzer, researchers were able to examine a number of light echoes. Now, NASA\u2019s James Webb Space Telescope has imaged some of these light echoes in much greater detail. Insets at lower right show one epoch of Webb observations, while the inset at left shows a Webb image of the central supernova remnant released in 2023.<\/div>\nSpitzer Image: NASA\/JPL-Caltech\/Y. Kim (Univ. of Arizona\/Univ. of Chicago). Cassiopeia A Inset: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Danny Milisavljevic (Purdue University), Ilse De Looze (UGent), Tea Temim (Princeton University). Light Echoes Inset: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, J. Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC).<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nFuture Work<\/h2>\nThe team\u2019s science program also includes spectroscopic observations using Webb\u2019s MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument). They plan to target the light echo multiple times, weeks or months apart, to observe how it evolves as the light echo passes by.<\/p>\n\u201cWe can observe the same patch of dust before, during, and after it\u2019s illuminated by the echo and try to look for any changes in the compositions or states of the molecules, including whether some molecules or even the smallest dust grains are destroyed,\u201d said Jencson.<\/p>\nInfrared light echoes are also extremely rare, since they require a specific type of supernova explosion with a short pulse of energetic radiation. NASA\u2019s upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope<\/a> will conduct a survey of the galactic plane that may find evidence of additional infrared light echoes for Webb to study in detail.<\/p>\nThe James Webb Space Telescope is the world\u2019s premier space science observatory. Webb is solving mysteries in our solar system, looking beyond to distant worlds around other stars, and probing the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. Webb is an international program led by NASA with its partners, ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency).<\/em><\/p>\nDownloads<\/h2>\nRight click any image to save it or open a larger version<\/strong> in a new tab\/window via the browser\u2019s popup menu.<\/p>\nView\/Download all image products at all resolutions<\/a><\/strong> for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.<\/p>\nMedia Contacts<\/h2>\nLaura\u00a0Betz<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0laura.e.betz@nasa.gov<\/a>NASA\u2019s Goddard Space Flight Center<\/a>, Greenbelt, Md.<\/p>\nChristine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
The most obvious features in the Webb images are tightly packed sheets. These filaments show structures on remarkably small scales of about 400 astronomical units, or less than one-hundredth of a light-year. (An astronomical unit, or AU, is the average Earth-Sun distance. Neptune\u2019s orbit is 60 AU in diameter.)<\/p>\n
\u201cWe did not know that the interstellar medium had structures on that small of a scale, let alone that it was sheet-like,\u201d said Peek.<\/p>\n
These sheet-like structures may be influenced by interstellar magnetic fields. The images also show dense, tightly wound regions that resemble knots in wood grain. These may represent magnetic \u201cislands\u201d embedded within the more streamlined magnetic fields that suffuse the interstellar medium.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is the astronomical equivalent of a medical CT scan,\u201d explained Armin Rest of the Space Telescope Science Institute, a member of the science team. \u201cWe have three slices taken at three different times, which will allow us to study the true 3D structure. It will completely change the way we study the interstellar medium.\u201d<\/p>\n
The team\u2019s science program also includes spectroscopic observations using Webb\u2019s MIRI (Mid-Infrared Instrument). They plan to target the light echo multiple times, weeks or months apart, to observe how it evolves as the light echo passes by.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe can observe the same patch of dust before, during, and after it\u2019s illuminated by the echo and try to look for any changes in the compositions or states of the molecules, including whether some molecules or even the smallest dust grains are destroyed,\u201d said Jencson.<\/p>\n
Infrared light echoes are also extremely rare, since they require a specific type of supernova explosion with a short pulse of energetic radiation. NASA\u2019s upcoming Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope<\/a> will conduct a survey of the galactic plane that may find evidence of additional infrared light echoes for Webb to study in detail.<\/p>\nThe James Webb Space Telescope is the world\u2019s premier space science observatory. Webb is solving mysteries in our solar system, looking beyond to distant worlds around other stars, and probing the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. Webb is an international program led by NASA with its partners, ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency).<\/em><\/p>\nDownloads<\/h2>\nRight click any image to save it or open a larger version<\/strong> in a new tab\/window via the browser\u2019s popup menu.<\/p>\nView\/Download all image products at all resolutions<\/a><\/strong> for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.<\/p>\nMedia Contacts<\/h2>\nLaura\u00a0Betz<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0laura.e.betz@nasa.gov<\/a>NASA\u2019s Goddard Space Flight Center<\/a>, Greenbelt, Md.<\/p>\nChristine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
The James Webb Space Telescope is the world\u2019s premier space science observatory. Webb is solving mysteries in our solar system, looking beyond to distant worlds around other stars, and probing the mysterious structures and origins of our universe and our place in it. Webb is an international program led by NASA with its partners, ESA (European Space Agency) and CSA (Canadian Space Agency).<\/em><\/p>\nDownloads<\/h2>\nRight click any image to save it or open a larger version<\/strong> in a new tab\/window via the browser\u2019s popup menu.<\/p>\nView\/Download all image products at all resolutions<\/a><\/strong> for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.<\/p>\nMedia Contacts<\/h2>\nLaura\u00a0Betz<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0laura.e.betz@nasa.gov<\/a>NASA\u2019s Goddard Space Flight Center<\/a>, Greenbelt, Md.<\/p>\nChristine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
Right click any image to save it or open a larger version<\/strong> in a new tab\/window via the browser\u2019s popup menu.<\/p>\nView\/Download all image products at all resolutions<\/a><\/strong> for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.<\/p>\nMedia Contacts<\/h2>\nLaura\u00a0Betz<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0laura.e.betz@nasa.gov<\/a>NASA\u2019s Goddard Space Flight Center<\/a>, Greenbelt, Md.<\/p>\nChristine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
View\/Download all image products at all resolutions<\/a><\/strong> for this article from the Space Telescope Science Institute.<\/p>\nMedia Contacts<\/h2>\nLaura\u00a0Betz<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0laura.e.betz@nasa.gov<\/a>NASA\u2019s Goddard Space Flight Center<\/a>, Greenbelt, Md.<\/p>\nChristine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
Laura\u00a0Betz<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013\u00a0laura.e.betz@nasa.gov<\/a>NASA\u2019s Goddard Space Flight Center<\/a>, Greenbelt, Md.<\/p>\nChristine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
Christine Pulliam<\/strong> \u2013 cpulliam@stsci.edu<\/a>Space Telescope Science Institute<\/a>, Baltimore, Md.<\/p>\nScience<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
Science<\/strong> \u2013 Jacob Jencson (Caltech\/IPAC)<\/p>\nRelated Information<\/h2>\nArticles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
Articles:<\/strong> Past Webb news releases on Cassiopeia A<\/a><\/p>\nInteractive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
Interactive:<\/strong> Explore light echoes in V838 Monocerotis<\/a><\/p>\nVideos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
Videos:<\/strong> Learn more about supernovas.<\/a><\/p>\nMore Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n
More Webb News<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n