The Spectacular Birth of the First Stars

Scientists are using supercomputer simulations to study the birth of the first stars, which were massive and short-lived compared to stars today. These early stars formed during the cosmic dark ages, when the universe was filled with opaque hydrogen gas. The simulations reveal how gas accumulated in dense pockets due to the gravitational forces of dark matter, leading to the ignition of the first stars. The intense energy released by these stars not only created heavier elements through supernovae but also played a crucial role in reionizing the universe. Simulations provide insights into the early stages of cosmic evolution that telescopes cannot yet observe.