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JWST Maps Cosmic Buckyballs, Finds Unexpected Nebula Structure

4/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The JWST mid-infrared image shows blue hot gas, red cooler gas, and an upside-down question-mark structure.
The image maps buckyballs (C60) in a shell around the white dwarf, forming a giant-like ring.
Jan Cami said the infrared emission does not match models, suggesting unknown processes.
The team will study Tc 1’s chemistry and gas motions and will observe two additional nebulae.

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Story summary

The JWST mid-infrared image shows blue hot gas, red cooler gas, and an upside-down question-mark structure.
The image maps buckyballs (C60) in a shell around the white dwarf, forming a giant-like ring.
Jan Cami said the infrared emission does not match models, suggesting unknown processes.
The team will study Tc 1’s chemistry and gas motions and will observe two additional nebulae.