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Stingray Nebula
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Stingray Nebula
This Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 image captures the infancy of the Stingray nebula (Hen-1357), the youngest known planetary nebula. In this image, the bright central star is in the middle of the green ring of gas. Its companion star is diagonally above it at 10 o clock. A spur of gas (green) is forming a faint bridge to the companion star due to gravitational attraction. The image also shows a ring of gas (green) surrounding the central star, with bubbles of gas to the lower left and upper right of the ring. The wind of material propelled by radiation from the hot central star has created enough pressure to blow open holes in the ends of the bubbles, allowing gas to escape. The red curved lines represent bright gas that is heated by a " shock" caused when the central stars wind hits the walls of the bubbles. The nebula is as large as 130 solar systems, but, at its distance of 18, 000 light-years, it appears only as big as a dime viewed a mile away. The Stingray is located in the direction of the southern constellation Ara (the Altar). The colors shown are actual colors emitted by nitrogen (red), oxygen (green), and hydrogen (blue)
Space Image feature a selection of NASA's incredible imagery
Media ID 635222
© NASA
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This print showcases the mesmerizing Stingray Nebula, a celestial wonder that represents the early stages of a planetary nebula. The image captured by the Wide Field and Planetary Camera 2 reveals an intricate display of cosmic beauty. At its heart lies a brilliant central star, surrounded by a vibrant green ring of gas. Positioned diagonally above is its companion star, connected by a delicate bridge of gas formed through gravitational attraction. The photograph also unveils additional fascinating details within this stellar nursery. A ring of green-hued gas encircles the central star, while bubbles of escaping gas can be observed at the lower left and upper right corners. These bubbles have been created as radiation from the scorching central star propels material outward with enough force to puncture holes in their ends. Highlighted by red curved lines are areas where bright gas has been heated due to shockwaves caused when the wind from the central star collides with bubble walls. This breathtaking nebula spans an astonishing size equivalent to 130 solar systems; however, its immense distance of 18,000 light-years makes it appear no larger than a dime viewed from one mile away. Located in the southern constellation Ara (the Altar), this awe-inspiring celestial phenomenon emits actual colors emitted by nitrogen (red), oxygen (green), and hydrogen (blue). It serves as a testament to nature's artistry on an astronomical scale – reminding us once again how vast and wondrous our universe truly is.
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