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Data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) are challenging the long-held model of galaxy formation that posited the involvement of invisible dark matter. Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have published findings in *The Astrophysical Journal* suggesting that instead of dark matter, an alternative gravitational theory might explain the formation of early galaxies.
The stan by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 13, 2024
Data from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) are challenging the long-held model of galaxy formation that posited the involvement of invisible dark matter. Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have published findings in *The Astrophysical Journal* suggesting that instead of dark matter, an alternative gravitational theory might explain the formation of early galaxies.
The standard model, which included the influence of cold dark matter (lambda-CDM), predicted dim and faint signals from primitive galaxies. However, observations show that the earliest galaxies appear large and bright, aligning with predictions made by the Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) theory proposed in 1998. This theory suggested rapid galaxy formation, contrasting with the gradual buildup expected under the lambda-CDM model.
Stacy McGaugh, professor and director of astronomy at Case Western Reserve, noted: "What the theory of dark matter predicted is not what we see." His research, co-authored with former colleagues Federico Lelli, Jay Franck, and James Schombert, highlights that MOND may better explain early galaxy formation. Unlike the gradual assembly described by the dark matter model, MOND posits rapid accumulation and subsequent collapse of mass to form galaxies, without invoking dark matter.
JWST's unparalleled ability to peer deep into the universe and observe high-redshift structures has revealed that early galaxies are unexpectedly large and bright. This discovery, McGaugh emphasized, supports predictions made over 25 years ago under the MOND framework. "The bottom line is, 'I told you so,'" he said, emphasizing the value of the scientific method in making and testing predictions.
JWST's findings may push astronomers to reconsider their understanding of how galaxies and large structures emerged in the universe's formative periods. While MOND provides compelling insights, McGaugh admitted that integrating it with General Relativity remains a formidable challenge.
Research Report:Accelerated Structure Formation: the Early Emergence of Massive Galaxies and Clusters of Galaxies
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