"JWST Sheds Light on Mysterious Vanishing of Massive Star"

Astronomers have used the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to study the mysterious disappearance of a massive star known as N6946-BH1. Previous observations suggested that the star had collapsed into a black hole rather than exploding into a supernova. However, new data from JWST's NIRCam and MIRI instruments reveal a bright infrared source consistent with material ejected from the star during a rapid brightening phase. Surprisingly, the study also identifies three remnant objects, indicating a possible stellar merger rather than a failed supernova. This discovery complicates our understanding of supernovae and the formation of stellar-mass black holes. Further observations will help distinguish between stellar mergers and true failed supernovae, shedding light on the final stages of massive stars.