The Existence of a New Vast Cluster

A Stunning View of H II Region N79 in the Large Magellanic Cloud

In a captivating new image captured by the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, we are presented with a mesmerizing view of H II region N79 in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), a satellite galaxy of our Milky Way. This incredible nebula, known as N79, is a region of interstellar atomic hydrogen that has been ionized, as depicted by the vibrant colors in the image, resulting in its striking appearance through Webb’s Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI).

Spanning an awe-inspiring distance of approximately 1630 light-years, N79 is an immense star-forming complex located in the southwest region of the LMC. Researchers have likened N79 to a younger version of the famous Tarantula Nebula, also known as 30 Doradus, which has been recently studied by Webb as well. Intriguingly, studies have shown that N79 boasts a star formation efficiency double that of 30 Doradus over the past half a million years.

The featured image centers on one of the three giant molecular cloud complexes within N79, referred to as N79 South or S1 for short. The distinctive pattern surrounding this bright object, resembling a burst of stars, is actually a series of diffraction spikes. These artifacts are commonly observed in telescopes that collect light using mirrors, and they arise from the design of the telescope itself. In Webb’s case, the hexagonal symmetry of its 18 primary mirror segments leads to the formation of six noticeable starburst spikes. However, such patterns are only visible around compact and extremely bright objects where all the light originates from a single source. Most galaxies appear relatively darker and more diffused, making these details harder to discern.

What sets Webb’s observation of N79 apart is its ability to capture longer wavelengths of light using MIRI. This allows us to witness the glowing gas and dust within the region more vividly. Unlike shorter wavelengths of light, which would be absorbed or scattered by dust grains in the nebula, mid-infrared light can penetrate deeper into the clouds. As a result, even protostars that remain embedded within the region become visible in this field.

The significance of studying star-forming regions like N79 lies in their similarity to the gigantic star-forming regions observed during the early Universe, when star formation rates were considerably higher. Astronomers are particularly intrigued by these regions because their chemical composition resembles that of the early Universe. Interestingly, star-forming regions within our Milky Way galaxy do not exhibit the same level of intense star formation as N79 and possess distinct chemical compositions. With Webb’s observations, astronomers now have the unique opportunity to compare and contrast star formation in N79 with deep observations of distant galaxies from the early Universe.

This exploration of N79 is part of Webb’s broader program to investigate the evolution of circumstellar discs and envelopes surrounding forming stars at various stages and masses. Webb’s remarkable sensitivity allows scientists to detect, for the first time, planet-forming dust discs around stars of similar mass to our Sun, even at the distance of the LMC.

Displayed in this image are various wavelengths of light, with 7.7 microns depicted in blue, 10 microns in cyan, 15 microns in yellow, and 21 microns in red. The different colors highlight different aspects of the nebula, enhancing our understanding of its intricate structure.

In summary, Webb’s mesmerizing image of H II region N79 in the Large Magellanic Cloud showcases the extraordinary beauty and complexity of star formation in a satellite galaxy of our Milky Way. This stunning snapshot not only provides insights into the evolution of circumstellar discs and envelopes around forming stars but also allows us to compare and contrast star formation in the LMC with distant galaxies from the early Universe. With each new observation, Webb continues to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, captivating our imaginations with its awe-inspiring discoveries.

(Image description: A bright young star within a colorful nebula. The star stands out as the brightest spot in the image, surrounded by six large spokes of light that crisscross the image. Additionally, numerous other bright spots can be observed within the clouds, which are portrayed in detailed layers of vibrant wisps.)