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Zeta Ophiuchi bow shock, infrared image C016 / 9726
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Zeta Ophiuchi bow shock, infrared image C016 / 9726
Zeta Ophiuchi bow shock. Infrared image from NASAs Spitzer Space Telescope (SST) of the bow shock in the interstellar medium caused by stellar winds from the fast-moving star Zeta Ophiuchi. This star is around 370 light years from Earth in the constellation of Ophiuchus. Many times hotter, brighter and more massive than our Sun, it is travelling at about 24 kilometres per second. The fine filaments of dust surrounding the star glow primarily at shorter infrared wavelengths (green). The bow shock (about half a light year from the star) is seen at longer infrared wavelengths (red). The shortest wavelengths are in blue. Image published in 2012
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2012 Astrophysical Astrophysics Colliding Collision Fast Glowing High Energy Impact Infrared Motion Movement Moving Nebula Ophiuchus Shock Wave Space Telescope Speed Speeding Spitzer Space Telescope Star Stars Universe Bow Shock Interstellar Medium Shockwave
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This print showcases the Zeta Ophiuchi bow shock, a mesmerizing phenomenon in the vastness of space. Captured by NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope (SST), this infrared image reveals the awe-inspiring collision between stellar winds from the fast-moving star Zeta Ophiuchi and the interstellar medium. Situated approximately 370 light years away from Earth within the constellation of Ophiuchus, Zeta Ophiuchi is an extraordinary celestial body. It surpasses our Sun in terms of temperature, brightness, and mass, racing through space at an astonishing speed of about 24 kilometers per second. The fine filaments of dust enveloping this magnificent star emit a vibrant green glow primarily at shorter infrared wavelengths. However, it is within the longer infrared wavelengths that we witness the striking bow shock – located half a light year away from Zeta Ophiuchi – depicted in vivid red hues. The shortest wavelengths present themselves as ethereal blues. Published in 2012, this image not only captures motion but also symbolizes cosmic impact and high-energy collisions occurring throughout our universe. Gas and dust clouds are swept aside by powerful shock waves generated by stellar winds propelling forward with immense force. As we gaze upon this breathtaking photograph, we are reminded once again of humanity's insatiable curiosity to explore and understand these remarkable astrophysical phenomena that shape our understanding of existence beyond our own planet.
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