Serbian astrophysicist Darko Donevski names a newly discovered galaxy SL3 to honor the Serbian student movement.
- The galaxy SL3 was discovered using ALMA and the James Webb Telescope.
- It contains stars over seven billion years old and a large reserve of molecular gas.
- The name SL3 symbolizes the Student List and the number 3 on the ballot.
- Donevski emphasizes that SL3 is not an official astronomical designation.
Serbian astrophysicist Darko Donevski has given a symbolic name, SL3, to one of 17 galaxies his team discovered in deep space, saying the gesture was made in honor of the Serbian student movement.
According to Donevski, the name stands for Student List and the number 3 on the ballot. He announced the decision on social media on Friday, comparing the galaxy’s long journey of light to the students’ own path.
Donevski said the team identified the 17 galaxies a year ago using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array, or ALMA, and the James Webb Space Telescope. He added that SL3 contains stars of different ages, including some that formed more than seven billion years ago, as well as a large reserve of molecular gas that will allow new stars to keep forming.
The galaxy had not been visible to optical telescopes because of gas and carbon dust around it. Observations by ALMA and Webb later revealed a very bright center, which Donevski linked to the formation of new generations of stars. He estimates that SL3 will continue to shine for another three billion years.
Donevski also stressed that SL3 is not an official astronomical designation. In astronomy, galaxies receive catalog names from the International Astronomical Union, while this label was meant as a public-facing name that could be used in the media, in scientific papers and at conferences.
For readers following Serbian current affairs, the reference to students reflects the country’s active student movement, which has frequently appeared in public debate and protest coverage. Related developments are regularly reported in Serbia News latest updates.
Frequently asked questions
What does SL3 stand for?
SL3 stands for Student List and the number 3 on the ballot, honoring the Serbian student movement.
How was the galaxy SL3 discovered?
SL3 was identified using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array and the James Webb Space Telescope.
Is SL3 an official name for the galaxy?
No, SL3 is a public-facing name and not an official designation from the International Astronomical Union.
