Home > Science > Space Exploration > Spitzer
Helix nebula, infrared Spitzer image
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Helix nebula, infrared Spitzer image
Helix nebula (NGC 7293), infrared Spitzer Space Telescope image. This is a planetary nebula, a series of shells of gas cast off by a dying star. The ejection of the stars outer layers exposes its hot core, whose radiation ionises the shells, causing them to glow. This image was taken at wavelengths of varying energy: high (blue), medium (green) and low (red). The gas in the central regions has been ionised more than the outer gas, which is shielded from the stellar core. The most highly ionised areas (cometary heads) are round the edge of the central void. Foreground and background stars are blue. The Helix nebula is 650 light years from Earth, in the constellation of Aquarius. Image data obtained by the IRAC sensor in October 2004
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6442137
© NASA/JPL-CALTECH/J. HORA (HARVARD-SMITHSONIAN CfA)/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
2004 Aquarius Astrophysical Astrophysics Dust Emission Energy Infra Red Ionised Knot Nebula Planetary Nebula Ring Rings Shell Shells Spitzer Space Telescope Star Death Stellar Evolution Universe Wavelength Wavelengths Helix Nebula Ngc 7293
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Science Photo Library
> Space
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Nebulas
> Science
> Space Exploration
> Spitzer
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the Helix nebula, also known as NGC 7293, captured by the infrared Spitzer Space Telescope. The Helix nebula is a planetary nebula formed from layers of gas expelled by a dying star. As these outer layers dissipate, they reveal the star's hot core, emitting radiation that ionizes the surrounding shells and causes them to emit a mesmerizing glow. The image highlights different energy wavelengths: high (blue), medium (green), and low (red). The central regions of gas have been more intensely ionized compared to the outer gas due to their proximity to the stellar core. Notably, cometary heads can be observed around the edge of the central void where highly ionized areas are concentrated. Foreground and background stars in this image appear blue against this celestial backdrop. Situated approximately 650 light years away from Earth in Aquarius constellation, this stunning photograph was taken using IRAC sensor technology back in October 2004. With its intricate rings and knots resembling comets scattered throughout its expanse, this image offers a glimpse into our vast universe's wonders. It serves as a testament to ongoing astrophysical research on stellar evolution and provides valuable insights into processes such as star death, emission patterns, ionization phenomena at varying wavelengths, and shell formations within planetary nebulas like NGC 7293.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
