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Oort cloud as seen from the Alpha Centuri system
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Oort cloud as seen from the Alpha Centuri system
Artists impression of the Sun (left) and Oort cloud (ring of small blue objects) as seen from the Alpha Centauri triple star system. The Oort cloud is a spherical halo of comets which is thought to lie at the edge of the solar system, about 1.5 light years from the Sun. The gravitational effect of nearby stars, such as those of the Alpha Centauri system, pulls comets out of the cloud and into orbits which eventually take them close to the Sun. The three Alpha Centauri stars are: Alpha Centauri A, far right; B, bottom right; & Proxima Centauri, red star above centre). Proxima Centauri is a red dwarf flare star which is seen here undergoing a flare
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Media ID 6446045
© JULIAN BAUM/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Comet Cometary Comets Cosmology Oort Cloud
EDITORS COMMENTS
This breathtaking print captures the mesmerizing beauty of the Oort cloud as seen from the Alpha Centauri system. In this artist's impression, we witness a stunning celestial dance between our Sun and a ring of small blue objects that form the Oort cloud. Located at the outermost edge of our solar system, approximately 1.5 light years away from us, this spherical halo is composed of countless comets. The gravitational influence exerted by nearby stars, such as those belonging to the Alpha Centauri triple star system, plays a crucial role in shaping the destiny of these comets. As depicted in this image, their gravitational pull lures some comets out of their distant abode within the Oort cloud and propels them into orbits that eventually bring them closer to our Sun. In addition to showcasing this cosmic ballet between stars and comets, we are also treated to a glimpse of Proxima Centauri - a red dwarf flare star located above center stage. This particular moment captures Proxima Centauri undergoing one its characteristic flares, illuminating the scene with bursts of vibrant energy. Through this artwork provided by Science Photo Library, we are reminded not only of humanity's insatiable curiosity about our universe but also how interconnected celestial bodies can shape and influence each other across vast distances.
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