In a groundbreaking discovery, astronomers have revealed two previously unseen galaxies located at the far reaches of space and time, offering new insights into the early universe. These hidden gems were found by accident during a routine observation, shedding light on the vast mysteries of the cosmos.
A Chance Discovery in the Cosmos
A team of researchers, led by Yoshinobu Fudamoto from Waseda University and the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ), stumbled upon two hidden galaxies while examining two other distant galaxies. Using the powerful Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile, the team was conducting research on galaxies named REBELS-12 and REBELS-29 when they noticed unusual bright emissions in the distant sky.
The Role of ALMA in the Discovery
ALMA, an advanced network of 66 radio telescopes, is capable of peering through dense clouds of cosmic dust, allowing astronomers to see far into the universe. This unique ability enabled the team to detect faint signals from two galaxies that had been obscured from view by cosmic dust. These new galaxies, named REBELS-12-2 and REBELS-29-2, were not visible in ultraviolet or optical light, making their discovery even more remarkable.
Galaxies Formed Just 800 Million Years After the Big Bang
The newly discovered galaxies are estimated to have formed around 800 million years after the Big Bang, which occurred 13.8 billion years ago. This places them among the earliest galaxies ever observed, providing valuable information about the universe’s evolution. By studying these galaxies, astronomers hope to gain a better understanding of how the cosmos began to take shape shortly after its creation.
A Glimpse Into the Early Universe
The discovery of these two galaxies is a major step forward in our understanding of the universe’s origins. It underscores the importance of advanced tools like ALMA in unlocking the secrets of deep space. As astronomers continue to explore the farthest reaches of the cosmos, this accidental find reminds us that there are still many hidden wonders waiting to be uncovered at the edge of space and time.
This exciting revelation could lead to further discoveries about the formation of galaxies, offering a deeper look at the infancy of our universe.
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