Astronomers discover one of the universe's oldest stars

In April 2026, astronomers made a groundbreaking discovery: a star named SDSS J0715−7334.

personastronomer

otherSDSS J0715−7334

By studying stars with low metallicity, researchers can better understand the first generation of stars that existed shortly after the Big Bang.

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eventBig Bang

For instance, the famous "Methuselah" star previously challenged our understanding of the universe's timeline before better technology refined its age.

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Unlike the Methuselah star, which resides closer to Earth, SDSS J0715−7334 is likely a galactic immigrant, having formed outside the Milky Way before joining our galaxy.

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otherSDSS J0715−7334

locationMilky Way

As our tools, such as the European Space Agency’s Gaia mission, become more advanced, we continue to piece together the history of our universe by finding these ancient relics hidden in the galactic halo.

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techGaia mission

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Comprehension Questions

What is the primary scientific value of SDSS J0715−7334?

It helps scientists understand the chemical composition of the early universe.

It is the only star ever discovered inside the Milky Way.

It proves that the universe is exactly 16 billion years old.

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Correct Choice

It helps scientists understand the chemical composition of the early universe.

How do astronomers define 'metallicity' in stars?

The amount of light a star emits into the galaxy.

The proportion of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium.

The total volume of space a star occupies.

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Correct Choice

The proportion of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium.

Why is SDSS J0715−7334 considered a 'galactic immigrant'?

It is the first star to be observed by human beings.

It likely formed outside the Milky Way and later migrated into our galaxy.

It was created by researchers at the University of Chicago.

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Correct Choice

It likely formed outside the Milky Way and later migrated into our galaxy.

What was the issue with initial age estimates of the Methuselah star?

It appeared to be older than the universe itself.

It was found to be composed entirely of dark matter.

It was too young to be considered a star.

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Correct Choice

It appeared to be older than the universe itself.

Which mission provided data that helped identify the origin of SDSS J0715−7334?

The European Space Agency’s Gaia mission.

The Hubble Space Telescope mission.

The SkyMapper exploration project.

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Correct Choice

The European Space Agency’s Gaia mission.

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