The Webb telescope saw something no one was supposed to see; key details inside
These results, published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters on August 1, show how JWST's intense infrared sight enables astronomers to look through dense clouds of cosmic dust. And what it's showing is a long hidden face of black holes and to particularly those previously believed to be asleep.
Black holes that are not actively gathering matter are not possible to detect under normal conditions. But then something alters when a star wanders in too close.
The black hole's incredible gravity distorts the star into a spinning disk of scorching gas. This event, called a tidal disruption event (TDE), briefly wakes the black hole. As the gas disk warms, it emits energy in the form of X-rays, ultraviolet, and visible light—causing the black hole to be seen for a brief period.
What do the MIT researchers say about this?
But these standard wavelengths of light can be totally obscured if the black hole is occulted by thick dust, says MIT astrophysicist Megan Masterson.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Walmart Photos Which Are Not For Everyone
Old Money Style
Undo
That's why most observed TDEs have been seen in comparably dust-poor areas. But that doesn't mean they're not occurring in more dusty galaxies as well, they're just much more difficult to detect.
Luckily, dust has a tell. When it absorbs radiation from the gas of a shredded star, it releases it as infrared light. In previous research, Masterson and colleagues went through old infrared data and discovered 12 probable TDEs that had escaped detection.
Next, JWST has focused on four of those occurrences. With its power to identify a broader spectrum of infrared signals than any previous telescope, it detected emission from electrons that had been ejected from atoms. That type of activity typically succeeds a burst of intense X-ray and ultraviolet emissions, another indicator that a black hole has just eaten a star.
The scientists say it's doubtful these signals originated from actively feeding black holes, which spend most of their time eating and lounging in dense clouds of dust.
Rather, what's seen as silicate dust patterns indicates something more fleeting. Computer simulations verified that these indicators are consistent with what would be expected from a long-dormant black hole waking up for just long enough to cannibalize a star.
Strangely enough, this type of infrared radiation takes a few months longer to arrive than other wavelengths. That's because it takes time for light from the exploded star to travel and warm the surrounding dust. But as Masterson puts it, this tardy infrared glow is one of the best and only methods of observing black holes obscured by veils of dust.
Now, with JWST, researchers are finally in a position to reveal such ancient cosmic meals. And it's just the start.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
15 minutes ago
- Time of India
Aspects in astrology: The angles between planets
I visualize the five major astrological aspects, represented by glowing orbs connected by lines of light, against a swirling nebula backdrop. Aspects refer to the angular relationships between planets in a birth chart, shaping how their energies interact. These connections influence personality, challenges, and life experiences, making them a fundamental component of astrological interpretation. The five major aspects—conjunction, sextile, square, trine, and opposition—each carry distinct meanings and effects. A conjunction occurs when two planets are within close proximity (0°), merging their energies. This aspect intensifies the traits of the involved planets, creating a powerful focal point in the chart. Depending on the planets, a conjunction can be harmonious (e.g., Venus and Jupiter) or challenging (e.g., Mars and Saturn). It often signifies a strong emphasis on the themes represented by those planets in a person's life. A sextile (60°) indicates a supportive and opportunistic connection between planets. This aspect fosters creativity, growth, and ease, encouraging positive developments in the areas it influences. For example, a sextile between Mercury and Uranus may enhance innovative thinking, while one between Venus and Mars could improve romantic and creative expression. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like She Was Everyone's Dream Girl In 90's, This Is Her Now The Latest Article Undo Unlike more intense aspects, sextiles provide gentle encouragement rather than forceful energy. A square (90°) creates tension and conflict, pushing individuals toward growth through challenges. Planets in square aspect often feel at odds, requiring effort to integrate their energies. For instance, a square between the Moon and Saturn might manifest as emotional restraint or self-doubt, urging the individual to develop resilience. While squares can be stressful, they are also catalysts for personal evolution. A trine (120°) represents harmony and flow, where planetary energies work together effortlessly. This aspect is considered fortunate, as it enhances natural talents and smooths obstacles. However, too many trines can lead to complacency, as the lack of friction may reduce motivation to strive for improvement. An opposition (180°) occurs when planets are directly across from each other, symbolizing polarity and balance. This aspect often manifests as external conflicts or relationships that require compromise. For example, an opposition between the Sun and Moon may reflect a tension between one's identity and emotions, calling for integration. Understanding aspects provides insight into the dynamic interplay of planetary energies in a birth chart. By analyzing these relationships, astrologers can uncover strengths, challenges, and potential life themes, offering valuable guidance for self-awareness and growth. Discover everything about astrology at Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces . Read your detailed Horoscope Today and Horoscope Tomorrow here.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Lizard vs. Snake Venom: Australian lizard develops immunity to deadly snakebites
In a discovery that could influence future antivenom development, scientists have found that the Australian major skink (Bellatorias frerei) has evolved a natural immunity to potent snake neurotoxins. Despite sharing little in common with mammals like honey badgers and mongooses, these reptiles have developed a similar molecular resistance, targeting the same critical receptor that snake venom typically shuts down. The breakthrough offers new insights into how evolution arms certain species against their deadliest predators and opens doors for biotech researchers studying antivenom therapies and neurological protection mechanisms. Snake venom resistance rooted in muscle receptor mutation The major skink's secret lies in a mutation of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor—a critical site targeted by snake neurotoxins to paralyze prey. This genetic tweak prevents venom from binding and disrupting nerve-muscle communication. Researchers observed that this modification mirrors similar adaptations in other distant species like mongooses and honey badgers, despite their evolutionary differences. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like With temperatures hitting 95°F, this is the mini air conditioner everyone's buying in the U.S News of the Discovery Undo The phenomenon is being hailed as an example of "convergent evolution"—where different species arrive at the same biological solution to a shared threat. According to zoologist Bryan Fry, one of the study's co-authors, evolution seems to repeatedly 'hit the same molecular bullseye' when it comes to venom resistance. This adaptation has independently emerged in at least 25 different skink lineages. Some variations also involve sugar molecule barriers and altered protein building blocks that further block venom activity. These defenses suggest that over millions of years, natural selection has equipped these reptiles with a robust biochemical shield. Breakthrough insights into future antivenom development By simulating snakebites using synthetic peptides and receptor models, scientists confirmed that the skink's altered receptors didn't react to venom the way normal ones do. The implications are profound—not just for evolutionary biology, but also for medicine. With better understanding of how certain species naturally neutralize toxins, researchers believe they can engineer more effective and universal antivenoms. This could be especially critical in regions like Australia, home to some of the world's most venomous snakes. An ancient arms race with modern-day medical potential The discovery underscores the biological arms race that has been unfolding for tens of millions of years between predators and prey. While venomous snakes evolved deadlier toxins, some prey species countered with molecular adaptations. Scientists now hope that decoding these evolutionary defenses will yield biomedical tools not just for treating snakebites, but possibly for broader neurological applications, including treating paralysis and neurodegenerative diseases.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Diet soda may raise Type 2 diabetes risk by 38%: Study warns
A new large-scale Australian study has raised serious concerns about the health effects of artificially sweetened beverages. According to researchers, consuming just one can of diet soda daily could increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 38%. Even more surprising is that this risk is higher than the 23% increase linked to traditional sugar-sweetened soft drinks. Type 2 diabetes currently affects 1.3 million Australians and over 500 million people globally, according to the World Health Organization. The vast majority of cases are linked to poor dietary choices and sedentary lifestyles. With diet sodas being widely marketed as 'safe' or 'diet-friendly,' the findings of this study may shift both public behaviour and industry regulations. This discovery challenges the long-standing belief that diet sodas are a healthier alternative for those trying to manage their weight, blood sugar, or diabetes risk. Artificial sweeteners like in diet sodas pose hidden diabetes risk; new study This study, published in the journal Diabetes & Metabolism, was a collaborative effort by Monash University, RMIT University, and the Cancer Council Victoria. Researchers observed the dietary habits of 36,608 Australians over nearly 14 years, tracking their intake of sugary and artificially sweetened beverages and their subsequent health outcomes. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Paras Sector 59 Gurgaon | Luxury Awaits at Paras Floret Paras The Florett Book Now Undo The research team, led by Professor Barbora de Courten, Associate Professor Allison Hodge, and PhD student Robel Hussen Kabthymer, found that artificial sweeteners were independently associated with a significantly higher diabetes risk, even when factors like body weight, exercise levels, and overall diet were accounted for. Diet sodas may trigger Type 2 diabetes risk independently of body weight Many people at risk of type 2 diabetes are advised to switch to diet sodas, assuming they're a safer option. However, this study suggests otherwise. 'Artificial sweeteners are often recommended to people at risk of diabetes as a healthier alternative,' explained Professor de Courten. 'But our results suggest they may pose their own health risks.' Interestingly, while the risk from sugary drinks can largely be attributed to obesity, the link between artificially sweetened drinks and diabetes remained strong even after accounting for body mass index. This suggests a direct metabolic effect may be at play. How diet sodas may affect metabolism Though low in calories, artificial sweeteners may disrupt gut microbiota, alter glucose metabolism, or cause insulin resistance. These changes can contribute to blood sugar dysregulation — a key factor in the development of type 2 diabetes. The authors point out that more research is needed to fully understand the biological mechanisms, but the current findings are enough to urge caution. This study carries major implications for public health messaging. Professor de Courten advocates for broader strategies beyond just taxing sugary beverages: 'We support measures like sugary drink taxes, but our study shows we also need to pay attention to artificially sweetened options. These are often marketed as better for you, yet may carry their own risks.' She emphasises that non-nutritive beverages—whether sugar-loaded or artificially sweetened—should be consumed sparingly, and policies must reflect this growing body of evidence. Also Read | Eating 2 apples daily help you fight fatty liver, colon cancer and heart diseases: Gastroenterologist reveals
