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JWST Uncovers Surprising UV Radiation from Young Stars

11/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) found ultraviolet radiation around five young stars in the Ophiuchus molecular cloud, 450 light years away.
Traditionally, protostars are not thought to produce UV radiation.
Jets and outflows from these protostars may generate local UV radiation.
The finding challenges star formation models and highlights JWST's role in studying stellar birth.

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Story summary

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) found ultraviolet radiation around five young stars in the Ophiuchus molecular cloud, 450 light years away.
Traditionally, protostars are not thought to produce UV radiation.
Jets and outflows from these protostars may generate local UV radiation.
The finding challenges star formation models and highlights JWST's role in studying stellar birth.