Webb Telescope Identifies Millions of Stars in Cigar Galaxy

WHO:

Phys.org - NASA's James Webb Space Telescope is involved in the discovery.

WHAT:

Phys.org - The James Webb Space Telescope has identified millions of stars within the Cigar Galaxy, also known as Messier 82 (M82).

NASA - M82 is undergoing rapid star formation, which is a significant scientific observation.

WHERE:

Phys.org - The Cigar Galaxy (Messier 82) is located 12 million light-years away from Earth.

WHY:

NASA - The intense star formation in M82 is thought to be the result of a galaxy merger.

HOW:

NASA - The James Webb Space Telescope has revealed previously unseen details of the galaxy.

(UPDATED June 23, 2026 21:36 UTC)

NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has made a groundbreaking discovery by identifying millions of stars within the Cigar Galaxy, also known as Messier 82, which is located 12 million light-years away from Earth. This galaxy is currently undergoing rapid star formation, a significant observation believed to be the result of a merger with another galaxy. The James Webb Space Telescope has revealed previously unseen details of M82, enhancing our understanding of this dynamic cosmic environment.