Cosmic Revelation: Ancient Stars Unleash Unprecedented Element Formation

Astronomers have discovered evidence of nuclear fission occurring in stars, providing insight into the formation of elements heavier than those found naturally on Earth. Previously, it was believed that such elements were created through cataclysmic events like neutron star mergers. However, new research suggests that fission, the process behind nuclear reactors on Earth, is also operating in the cosmos and contributing to the creation of heavy elements. This discovery could help explain the origin of elements with atomic masses over 260, which have not been detected in space or on Earth before.