star formation It can feel like a distant and abstract concept until you see it mapped across a landscape of gas and dust. recent images from hubble space telescope Observe the N159 star-forming complex inside. large magellanic cloud, one of milky way‘s closest companion. Its proximity makes it a perfect place to observe how stars form in environments very different from our own.
What is it?
In the image, thick clouds of cold hydrogen gas form ridges and thin filaments. The deep red hue results from hydrogen gas activated by the harsh radiation of newly formed hydrogen. star. Where the glow is brightest indicates that the hot, massive, young star has become more active recently.
Where is it?
The N159 star-forming complex is located in the Large Magellanic Cloud, approximately 150 light-years in diameter and approximately 160,000 light-years across. light year From the earth.
Why is it amazing?
This recent image captures the rich dynamics of star formation. Huge young stars don’t settle down quietly. their intense radiation and powerful star wind It is pushed outward and the surrounding gas forms a cavity. The bubble-like structures and carved cavities within the glowing hydrogen are typical signs of stellar feedback, the process by which newborn stars reform the clouds from which they originate. That feedback is both destructive and creative. It can blow away material and stop star formation in some places, while compressing gas elsewhere to help ignite new stars.
Images like this help astronomers better understand the details of star formation and give us more clues about early stars. universe And those first stars.
Want to know more?
You can find out more about. hubble space telescope and Star Nursery School.