The JWST and the Mystery of Massive Quenched Galaxies in the Early Universe

This image shows four of the massive quenched galaxies the JWST found in the early Universe. These images show them as they were around 9 billion years ago, during the Cosmic Noon. The Cosmic Noon was a period of peak star formation in the Universe's galaxies, yet many of these quenched galaxies have been found. Image Credit: David Maltby - University of Nottingham

With its ability to observe the red-shifted light from early galaxies, the JWST has revealed some surprises. Many massive galaxies in the early Universe had ceased star formation and were already quenched hundreds of millions of years sooner than thought. By examining their morphology, new research shows that mergers that were previously hidden from view are responsible.

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