Newly released images from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) showcase 19 spiral galaxies in remarkable detail, providing insights into star formation, galactic structure, and evolution. These images were made public by the Physics at High Angular resolution in Nearby GalaxieS (PHANGS) project, operating across major astronomical observatories.
The galaxies, viewed face-on, include NGC5068 (closest at 15 million light years) and NGC1365 (most distant at 60 million light years). The JWST, launched in 2021, collects data mainly in the infrared, offering a complementary perspective to the optical and ultraviolet observations by the Hubble Space Telescope.
The JWST’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) and Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) captured roughly 100,000 star clusters and millions or billions of individual stars in these spiral galaxies. The images provide a detailed view of the earliest phase of star formation, allowing scientists to explore the structure of dust and gas clouds from which stars and planets form.
These observations offer a unique perspective on the cycle of star formation and feedback, revealing dynamic processes and the impact of young stars on the space between stars. The JWST’s ability to see through dust enhances our understanding of galaxy operations, complementing previous observations by the Hubble Space Telescope. The stunning images not only contribute to scientific research but also engage the public in the wonder of the cosmos.
