NGC 346

The Webb Space Telescope has provided evidence that contradicts existing theories by confirming the existence of long-lived protoplanetary disks in heavy-element-deficient environments, suggesting the need to change our understanding of planet formation in the early universe. Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Olivia C. Jones (UK ATC), Guido de Markey (ESTEC), Margaret Meixner (USRA)

The James Webb Space Telescope challenges theories about the formation of planets in the early universe

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New discoveries indicate that protoplanetary discs can survive longer in environments poor in heavy elements, contrary to previous assumptions
The Webb Space Telescope observes NGC 346 (NIRCam Image) Photo: NASA, ESA

The Webb Space Telescope reveals star formation in the dusty bands of the Small Magellanic Cloud

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Previous infrared studies of the NGC 346 nebula have focused on stellar embryos heavier than five to eight times the mass of our Sun. With the help of a web, it is possible to reach lighter protostars, very small
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