Gamma-ray burst's engine stays active for record-breaking 27 days

Astronomers observed a gamma-ray burst (GRB) with an active central engine lasting 27 days, breaking the previous record. The burst, GRB 220706A, is classified as a dark burst with substantial dust extinction.

Why it matters. This discovery provides insights into the mechanisms powering ultra-long gamma-ray bursts and helps explain how massive stars die and what kind of compact object is left behind.