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Space & Astronomy

Earendel: Most Distant Known Star Discovered

WireByte Staff · July 11, 2026

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope have identified Earendel, a star cluster or single star, as the most distant known object in the universe, located 28 billion light-years away in the constellation Cetus. The discovery surpasses the previous record held by MACS J1149 Lensed Star 1, discovered in 2018. The findings have significant implications for our understanding of the universe's early stages.

Key points

  • Earendel, a star cluster or single star, has been identified as the most distant known object in the universe, located 28 billion light-years away in the constellation Cetus.
  • The discovery was made using the James Webb Space Telescope, which revealed Earendel's comoving distance, surpassing the previous record held by MACS J1149 Lensed Star 1, discovered in 2018.
  • Earendel's distance was confirmed through observations in the 2020s, building on earlier discoveries made with the Hubble Space Telescope in 2022.
  • The findings have significant implications for our understanding of the universe's early stages, providing new insights into the formation and evolution of galaxies and stars.

The discovery of Earendel, a star cluster or single star, has sent shockwaves through the scientific community. Located 28 billion light-years away in the constellation Cetus, Earendel has been identified as the most distant known object in the universe. This achievement surpasses the previous record held by MACS J1149 Lensed Star 1, discovered in 2018.

The James Webb Space Telescope played a crucial role in the discovery, providing the necessary data to confirm Earendel's comoving distance. This feat was made possible through observations in the 2020s, building on earlier discoveries made with the Hubble Space Telescope in 2022.

The implications of this discovery are significant, providing new insights into the formation and evolution of galaxies and stars. By studying Earendel, scientists can gain a better understanding of the universe's early stages, shedding light on the mysteries of the cosmos.

As researchers continue to study Earendel, they are likely to uncover more secrets about the universe's distant past. The discovery of this star cluster or single star is a testament to the power of modern astronomy and the importance of continued exploration and research.

Sources

WireByte Staff — Editorial Team

The WireByte editorial team synthesises technology news from multiple primary sources, verifies the facts, and links every source. Articles are produced with AI assistance and reviewed under our editorial policy.