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Discovery of Potential First Metal-Free Galaxy MPG-CR3

11/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Astronomers identified MPG-CR3, a galaxy formed around 11 billion years ago that appears metal-free, suggesting Population III (Pop III) stars.
The galaxy's spectrum shows metals at only 0.7% of the Sun's abundance.
Its stellar population is about 2 million years old.
Its isolation in an underdense region may explain its pristine state.
Further research is needed to confirm whether MPG-CR3 is the first Population III galaxy.

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Story summary

Astronomers identified MPG-CR3, a galaxy formed around 11 billion years ago that appears metal-free, suggesting Population III (Pop III) stars.
The galaxy's spectrum shows metals at only 0.7% of the Sun's abundance.
Its stellar population is about 2 million years old.
Its isolation in an underdense region may explain its pristine state.
Further research is needed to confirm whether MPG-CR3 is the first Population III galaxy.