Remnants of a Supernova in Cassiopeia A (MIRI image)

Utilizing Webb's potent infrared capabilities, never-before-seen intricacies of Cassiopeia A have been unveiled. This celestial object is the aftermath of a colossal star's explosion approximately 340 years ago. Despite its location 11,000 light-years away, this supernova might have been observable with the naked eye during its occurrence, marking a rare event within our galaxy. The orange section on the left side of the image indicates the collision of expelled material from the detonated star with the surrounding gas and dust. Enclosed within this outer shell is material originating from the star, including elements such as oxygen, argon, and neon.  Being the youngest remnant of an exploded massive star in our galaxy, Cas A provides distinctive insights into the death of a star. Further examination by Webb will hopefully reveal more about the origins and production of cosmic dust, which forms the elements we’re all made of.