The Oldest, Most Distant Object in the Universe Discovered

NASA scientists have discovered the most distant galaxy ever observed, using the Hubble and Spitzer Space Telescopes. This galaxy, named MACS 0647 JD, is 13.3 billion light-years away, providing a glimpse into the universe's early formation, just 420 million years after the Big Bang. The discovery was made possible through gravitational lensing, a phenomenon predicted by Einstein, where massive galaxy clusters bend light, magnifying distant objects. This technique allows astronomers to extend their view of the universe's past, potentially observing objects as old as light itself.

What makes the discovery of Galaxy Macs 0647 JD so significant?

• It is the closest galaxy to Earth.

• It provides a view into the early universe.

• It is the first galaxy discovered by NASA.

• It is the largest galaxy ever found.

How does the size of Galaxy Macs 0647 JD compare to the Milky Way?

• It is much larger than the Milky Way.

• It is about the same size as the Milky Way.

• It is much smaller than the Milky Way.

• It is twice the size of the Milky Way.

What role did the Hubble and Spitzer telescopes play in the discovery of the distant galaxy?

• They were used to launch a satellite.

• They helped in predicting the galaxy's future.

• They provided the technology to observe the galaxy.

• They were used to communicate with the galaxy.

What is gravitational lensing?

• A method to measure the size of galaxies.

• A process to create new galaxies.

• A technique to bend light around massive objects.

• A way to detect sound waves in space.

What do astronomers hope to achieve with more time and technology?

• To create new galaxies.

• To communicate with extraterrestrial life.

• To travel to distant galaxies.

• To observe objects as old as light itself.