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First Stars: Ionization

Graphic titled “Ionization: Effects of UV Radiation from the First Stars” showing a simple illustration of an ultraviolet light ray knocking an electron off of an atom.

Ultraviolet light is a type of ionizing radiation. It has the ability to separate electrons from atomic nuclei, converting neutral atoms into charged particles called ions. UV light from the first stars was absorbed by hydrogen atoms, causing them to be ionized.

  • Release Date
    February 22, 2019
  • Credit
    Image: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI

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Last Updated
Aug 28, 2025
Contact
Media

Laura Betz
NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center
Greenbelt, Maryland
laura.e.betz@nasa.gov

Image Credit

NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI

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