The Space-based multi-band Variable Object Monitor (SVOM), a joint China-France astronomical satellite, has detected a gamma-ray burst (GRB) originating from approximately 13 billion years ago. This discovery provides insights into the universe when it was only about 730 million years old.
According to Wei Jianyan, chief scientist of the SVOM project, this GRB, designated GRB250314A, may represent the demise of a first-generation star, collapsing into a black hole or neutron star. Launched in June 2024, SVOM has detected over 100 GRBs in its first 10 months of operation, showcasing its capabilities as a powerful tool for studying these energetic events.
The detection of this ancient GRB validates SVOM's performance and opens new avenues for understanding star formation, black hole genesis, and compact object mergers in the early universe. SVOM is expected to operate for at least three years, searching for high-energy explosions and gathering data to refine theories about the evolution of the early universe. The mission exemplifies international collaboration in space science and is poised to significantly advance our knowledge of the cosmos.