On January 6, 2025, an international team of astronomers announced the discovery of 44 new stars in a distant galaxy, a significant achievement made possible through the technique of gravitational lensing. This marks the first time so many stars have been identified in a single cluster.
The research, led by the Center for Frontier Science at Chiba University in Japan, utilized data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to study the Dragon Arc galaxy, located behind the massive galaxy cluster Abell 370.
Gravitational lensing occurs when a foreground galaxy cluster bends the light from a more distant object, magnifying it and allowing scientists to observe it in detail. The findings provide insights into the behavior of stars during the 'cosmic noon,' a period approximately eight billion years ago when star formation peaked.
Dr. David Lagattuta from Durham University noted that the characteristics of the newly identified stars, including many red supergiants, suggest they are individual stars rather than star clusters or supernovae. The JWST's capabilities allowed the team to see through cosmic dust, revealing these previously hidden stars.
The research not only enhances understanding of star formation during this critical period in the universe's history but also contributes to knowledge about dark matter, the elusive substance that influences galaxy formation.
The team plans to continue observations of the Dragon Arc to further explore the stellar populations magnified by Abell 370.