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Helix Nebula, composite image C016 / 3864
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Helix Nebula, composite image C016 / 3864
Helix Nebula (NGC 7293), composite image. This object is a planetary nebula, a dying star ejecting its dusty outer layers. The image was obtained by combining infrared (yellow, green and red) and ultraviolet (UV, blue) data from NASAs Spitzer Space Telescope and Galaxy Evolution Explorer (GALEX). The ejected layers are glowing due to the intense UV radiation from the collapsed stellar core, a white dwarf (not visible at this scale). Some data in the outer regions of the image is from NASAs Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE). The Helix Nebula, about 2.5 light years across, is 650 light years distant, in the constellation of Aquarius. Image published in 2012
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© NASA/JPL-CALTECH/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
2012 Aquarius Astrophysical Astrophysics Expanding Expansion Glowing Infrared Planetary Nebula Space Telescope Spitzer Space Telescope Stellar Evolution Ultraviolet Universe White Dwarf Wide Field Infrared Survey Explorer Wise Galaxy Evolution Explorer Helix Nebula Ngc 7293
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This print showcases the Helix Nebula, also known as NGC 7293, in all its cosmic glory. The image is a composite of data collected from various space telescopes, including NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope and Galaxy Evolution Explorer (GALEX), as well as the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (WISE). The Helix Nebula is a planetary nebula, an awe-inspiring phenomenon that occurs when a dying star sheds its outer layers into space. These ejected layers are illuminated by the intense ultraviolet radiation emanating from the collapsed stellar core, which has transformed into a white dwarf. However, this white dwarf remains invisible at this scale. Spanning approximately 2.5 light years across and located about 650 light years away in the constellation of Aquarius, the Helix Nebula mesmerizes with its vibrant colors and intricate dust shells. The combination of infrared and ultraviolet data allows us to witness this celestial spectacle in stunning detail. Published in 2012 by NASA/JPL-CALTECH/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY, this image serves as a testament to our continuous exploration of the universe and our deepening understanding of astrophysics. It reminds us of both the beauty and transience inherent in stellar evolution while igniting our curiosity about what lies beyond our own galaxy.
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