James Webb Telescope Unveils New Moon Orbiting Uranus
The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has discovered S/2025 U1, a previously unknown moon orbiting Uranus. Spotted on February 2, 2025, this small moon, about 6 miles wide, brings Uranus’ total moon count to 29. Located approximately 35,000 miles from Uranus’ center, it has a circular orbit, suggesting it formed near its current position. Using JWST's Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam), scientists took ten 40-minute exposures, revealing this faint satellite. Uranus, known for its many small moons, offers clues to a chaotic history linking these moons and its rings. This new discovery hints at more unknown complexity. The discovery is pending peer review and highlights JWST's capabilities, opening doors to further understand Uranus' moons and rings. The new moon awaits an official name from the International Astronomical Union (IAU). Explore more about…