Indian Scientists Measure Magnetic Fields Near Infant Massive Star

In a groundbreaking achievement, researchers from the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram, have become the first scientists globally to directly measure magnetic fields near a forming massive star, advancing our understanding of star and galaxy formation. This pivotal discovery was published on July 19, 2025, in *The Astrophysical Journal Letters*, marking a significant milestone in astrophysics.

The study focused on a massive protostar known as IRAS 18162-2048, located approximately 4,500 light years from Earth. Utilizing advanced observations from the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) in the United States, the team detected circularly polarized radio emissions, a crucial indicator of magnetic fields. The measured magnetic field in the vicinity of the protostar ranged from 20 to 35 Gauss, which is roughly 100 times stronger than Earth's magnetic field.

Dr. Sarita Vig, the lead scientist at IIST who conceptualized the study, highlighted the significance of these findings, stating, "These magnetic field values are now scientifically measured from near the protostar, unlike earlier studies that relied on theoretical models." This achievement not only enhances the theoretical framework surrounding mass star formation but also supports the hypothesis that jet formations from both stars and black holes share a common magnetic origin.

The research further corroborates a longstanding theory in astrophysics regarding the universality of jet formation. Amal George Cheriyan, a PhD researcher at IIST and co-author of the paper, remarked, "This is the first strong evidence that jet formation physics is universal, whether it’s a young star or a distant black hole."

The collaborative effort involved partnerships with esteemed institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), and Universidad Nacional de Córdoba in Argentina. This cooperative research effort underscores the global nature of scientific inquiry and the necessity of international collaboration in addressing complex astronomical questions.

Historically, the formation of massive stars, defined as those exceeding 8 to 10 times the mass of our Sun, has posed significant challenges to astrophysicists, with much of the understanding remaining theoretical for decades. Previous attempts to measure magnetic fields in the vicinity of such stars had failed due to technological limitations, leaving scientists to infer the presence of magnetism through indirect methods.

The implications of this discovery extend beyond mere academic curiosity. Understanding the magnetic dynamics at play during the formation of massive stars can provide deeper insights into the broader processes that govern galaxy formation and evolution. As Dr. Vig noted, the findings pave the way for future research that could elucidate the role of magnetic forces in the cosmos.

This research also prompts a reevaluation of existing theories about the lifecycle of galaxies and the mechanisms driving their evolution. The implications of a shared magnetic origin for jets may lead to new predictive models in astrophysical research.

As the scientific community continues to explore the complexities of our universe, this landmark study serves as a reminder of the intricate connections that govern stellar and galactic phenomena. The future of astrophysics may be significantly impacted by these findings, as they invite further exploration into the magnetism of stars and its effects on the formation and evolution of galaxies across the universe.