THE WEBB TELESCOPE REDISCOVERS THE UNIVERSE

THE WEBB TELESCOPE REDISCOVERS THE UNIVERSE

Since its commissioning, the incredible James Webb Telescope has allowed us to see the universe as never before. On 5 September 2022 it offered its first images to the world, demonstrating the immense capability of its infrared-sensitive technology.

Thanks to its unique configuration and location, just under 2 million kilometres away at the L2 Sun-Earth Lagrange point, it can capture images of the observable disc of Mars, spaces never before seen in such high quality detail.

Its photographs and spectra now allow scientists to study very short-term phenomena that previously seemed unattainable, such as dust storms, weather patterns and even seasonal changes.

 

THE KEY CHALLENGES

There is no doubting the immense capability that James Webb brings to modern science. However, it was not easy to arrive at this result.

To understand the issue, let’s reflect a little on our interstellar neighbours: the moon, the stars and, of course, Mars. There is no doubt that the Red Planet xxx is one of the brightest objects in our space firmament. After all, it is easy to see it even at night with no other tool than your eyes.

This presents an incredible challenge for researchers using the James Webb Telescope, as the light emanating from this celestial body is extremely high, while the original James Webb configuration is intended to capture extremely faint light from much more distant galaxies.

To circumvent the sensitivity of the James Webb and avoid “detector saturation”, special techniques had to be developed and applied in the observing process. One of the measures was, for example, to take only a part of the brightness of Mars for very short exposures. In this way, it is possible to perform the analysis.

 

THE LONE STAR

Several pictures from the James Webb Telescope have already been trending on social media. Stars, galaxies and celestial bodies are available to our eyes for the first time in incredible resolution.

However, one of the most surprising discoveries for scientists comes not from a gigantic planet or a distant galaxy but, instead, from a single, solitary star shining hundreds of light years away: Earendel.

Or shone, more precisely. After all, the fact that we can see its light right now means that millions of years ago that light was probably already extinguished.

THE LONE STAR

According to the scientists’ analysis, it is very likely that we are looking at the few remaining remnants of Population III, the first stars that emerged in the Universe after the Big Bang.

According to current knowledge of these ancient celestial bodies, they are thought to have consisted only of primordial hydrogen and helium. The reason? No other component or material existed in nature or space.
Therefore, the brightness of this lone star gives us insight into the origin of the heavier atoms that would later form as the result of nuclear reactions triggered by other celestial bodies exploding.

According to the information available so far, it is estimated that Earendel, which we see today as a small, solitary star, had a mass 100 times larger than the sun, as well as a temperature of 20 000 degrees Celsius. This is the reason for its brightness, with a slight bluish hue.

Even so, as it is not a supernova, we should not be able to see it from our position. Therefore, we have a strange and fortuitous coincidence to thank for its recording.

 

 

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RECOMMENDED ASTRONOMY BOOKS

RECOMMENDED ASTRONOMY BOOKS


We are tiny and insignificant beings when compared to the vast and immeasurable universe. For this reason, and for many other reasons, it is normal for us to feel curious about what lies beyond the limits of planet earth.

If you are one of those who is very passionate about astronomy, do not miss this list of books that you should have in your library.

 

5 ASTRONOMY BOOKS YOU NEED

1.‘THE UNIVERSE IN YOUR HAND’ – CHRISTOPHE GALFARD

Known as the modern Stephen Hawking (he was one of his best students, really), Galfard possesses a very vast insight and comprehension of our universe. Therefore, he is able to address the theoretical material that helps us understand how it works with a very accessible approach.

His book summarizes the story of the creation of the cosmos xxx with a vocabulary that even a teenager could easily assimilate. And the best thing is that he tackles everything. From the classic to what sounds like science fiction: inter-dimensional travel, black holes and adventures in space-time.

 

2.‘AT SKY SKY’ – DAVID GALADÍ-ENRÍQUEZ

The book that occupies the second place in this list stands out not only for its splendid theoretical content. But also for its visual support material.

The pen of David Galadí-Enriquez, who is currently a doctor in astrophysics, allows us to learn about the functioning of the atmosphere, the northern lights and meteorites with the photographic support of Juan Carlos Casado, famous throughout the world for his photographs of the sky .

Although it is not an easy book to read, we are sure that you will be able to find its value even if you are an amateur on the subject.

 

3. ‘PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR THE AMATEUR ASTRONOMER‘ – BOURGE-LACROUX

We think the name of this book describes itself very well. If you are one of those who are just beginning to discover the mysteries that the sky has to offer, we recommend you start here.

With a speech that combines technicalities and casual language, the author takes us on an educational journey into the interesting theoretical and practical world of astronomy.

With discursive singularity and a magnificent ability to synthesize knowledge, this book addresses everything you need to know to stop calling yourself an “amateur”: how to position a telescope, how to observe planets, what to do to be able to observe the sun, lunar and planetary photography techniques. , etc.

5 ASTRONOMY BOOKS YOU NEED

4. ‘ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY’ – THIERRY LEGAULT

If the previous books caught your attention because of their great visuals, this one will blow your brain! And what is better: it will incorporate a new hobby into your life that you can enjoy for life, only with a telescope and a reflex camera.

This guide teaches you in a didactic way the necessary techniques to photograph many elements of our wide universe. Among them: constellations, meteors, comets, eclipses, etc.

 

5. ‘THE UNIVERSE IN A CUP OF COFFEE: SIMPLE ANSWERS TO ENIGMAS OF SCIENCE AND THE COSMOS’ – JORDI PEREYRA

Those who know this book must surely still remember it. Unlike other photography guides or theoretical books, Pereyra’s work takes us through astronomy in the best style of ‘Ciencia de Sofa’, his blog on astronomy, physics, geology and other sciences.

His goal is to pose accessible, easy-to-understand answers to the biggest questions about the universe, with hilarious prose and speech. 100% recommended.

Which of these books caught your attention the most? We want to read your opinion in the comments.

Astronomy facts

 

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Useful tips for aspiring astronomers

Some people frequently gaze into the sky and wonder how the world works. Some wonder what the next scientific discovery would be. While some persons have a faint knowledge about what astronomy is, others know more than a few things. Astronomy is challenging, but it may also be stimulating and fulfilling. Whether you are a new-comer or you have been around for a while, there are some things we think you should know.

What Astronomers Do

Many people are not new to the word ‘πορνο,’ but few know what astronomers do except that they look at stars through telescopes. However, while astronomers spend some time seeing outer space, they spend much more time analyzing data, developing theories and making research proposals. There are somewhat few available astronomy positions, and this makes it very competitive.

Education

Usually, there is a need for a Ph.D. to become an astronomer, however, you can begin preparations from high school by engaging with physic and math courses. Chemistry, computer science, and other sciences will be helpful, too. You may eventually choose to study astronomy, physics or astrophysics, however, physics and astrophysics are more integrated studies of astronomy and physics.

Starting Your Astronomy Career

Many astronomy students, especially those who want to research further their education. Most astronomers work up to a Ph.D. in their areas of study. After the Ph.D., astronomers usually take up temporary jobs that help them build their experience in the field.

After the postdoctoral position, astronomers may find work at universities, observatories, laboratories, government agencies or in private industry. The majority find work at universities or in government positions. In 2016, 40% of astronomers worked at an educational institution. NASA and the Department of Defense are the biggest government employers in the field. Federally, as well as privately, funded research laboratories also hire a lot of astronomers.

Developing focus

Throughout their career, many astronomers have a focus. They usually have one or more topics on which they write. As a rookie, you may not have any yet but as you attain expertise, you must begin to channel your interest in the field to know where your contribution will most lie. Many times, this area of focus comes naturally as you conduct researches.

Also, ignore anyone saying that astronomy is one of the easier sciences. Astronomers work a lot with computers and must be good at their math and physics. Some astronomers even build their own instruments, so you can also learn about machining and other skills.