The Science
This graphic presentation compares the spectral data of the kilonova GRB 230307A (NASA should use a better name for that, lol), as observed by the James Webb Space Telescope, with a kilonova model. Both display a distinct peak in the spectrum region associated with tellurium, highlighted in red. The detection of tellurium, which is rarer than platinum on Earth, represents Webb’s first direct observation of an individual heavy element from a kilonova.
Ripples in Time
These events have the potential to create ripples in spacetime, contributing to the gravitational wave background. Such collisions are significant sources of gravitational waves, which were first directly detected by LIGO in 2015. The merger of neutron stars leading to a kilonova was notably observed in 2017, confirming that such events produce both electromagnetic radiation and gravitational waves.
Crazy Energy
Webb's research on supernovae and similar events, such as kilonovas like this one, is particularly fascinating to me. The sheer magnitude of the energy unleashed during these events, producing a variety of elements, is awe-inspiring. Such events are among the most energetic in the universe, emitting a vast amount of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light, gamma rays, and other wavelengths.
The total energy released in a kilonova can vary, but a typical estimate is on the order of ten quattuordecillion joules. This is roughly equivalent to the energy output of our Sun over its entire 10-billion-year lifetime being released in just a few days to weeks.
With Webb's extraordinary ability to peer deeper into space than ever before, astronomers anticipate discovering more kilonovas and gathering additional evidence of heavy element formation.
Explore Further
Our mission with the JWST science is to share the data in a clear and easy-to-understand manner. For those interested in pondering deeper, you can visit the Webb website directly using this link to explore more. Spectra:Kilonova Emission Spectrum