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The Euclid space telescope has captured the largest and most detailed image yet of the Milky Way’s crowded center.

The image includes about 60 million stars and is made from nine photographs, each covering an area of the sky larger than the Moon.

While the image is visually stunning, scientists say it is also useful for research. It may help them study planets beyond our solar system through a process called microlensing, sometimes described as a “cosmic magnifying glass.”

That happens when the gravity of one star bends and brightens the light from another star behind it. If a planet orbits the closer star, its gravity can cause a small change in brightness that helps scientists learn more.

The image includes 51 known planetary systems and may help researchers conduct further studies.

It is a reminder that scientific progress often comes from combining advanced technology, patient observation, and the ability to see familiar places in entirely new ways.


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Telescope captures most detailed image yet of Milky Way's heart: "Cosmic magnifying glass" Euclid is on a mission to chart one-third of the sky in the hopes of shedding light on the enduring mysteries of dark matter and dark energy.