Using data from the Submillimeter Array (SMA), astronomers have determined that the Ring Nebula has an ellipsoid shape, challenging previous models.
The Ring Nebula , a beloved object for stargazers, has been captured in stunning detail by the Hubble Space Telescope, the Submillimeter Array (SMA), and the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST). These images, combined, reveal a three-dimensional structure of the nebula, shedding light on its true shape and the processes governing its evolution.
The Ring Nebula, located approximately 2,000 light-years from Earth in the constellation Lyra, is the remnant of a Sun-like star that shed its outer layers 6,000 years ago. The star's intense ultraviolet radiation ionizes the surrounding gas, causing it to emit vibrant green and blue light. Astronomers led by Chester F. Carlson from the Rochester Institute of Technology and Professor Joel Kastner from the Centre for Imaging Science and School of Physics and Astronomy have been investigating the nebula's shape using the Submillimeter Array (SMA). The SMA, located atop Mauna Kea in Hawaii, detects the emission of carbon monoxide gas surrounding the hot gas and dust that comprises the nebula's visible structure. This carbon monoxide, ejected by the dying star, provides a unique perspective on the nebula's three-dimensionality. Previous observations had suggested a dust ring or soap bubble-like structure, but the SMA data revealed a more complex, ellipsoid shape. The team analyzed the velocity and location of carbon monoxide molecules to reach this conclusion. Interestingly, the observations also revealed the influence of a companion star to the progenitor red giant, evidenced by high-velocity gas concentrations ejected from each end of the ellipsoidal nebula. This discovery adds another layer of complexity to our understanding of the Ring Nebula's formation and evolution, mirroring observations of the Southern Ring Nebula, another object studied by the JWST. The combined data from these powerful telescopes provides a comprehensive view of the Ring Nebula, highlighting its intricate beauty and the dynamic processes shaping its form
Ring Nebula Submillimeter Array 3D Model Planetary Nebula Ellipsoid Shape Companion Star
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Circular Ring 2 Announced at CES 2025: A Smart Ring with Apple Watch-Like FeaturesThe Circular Ring 2, a new smart ring announced at CES 2025, boasts advanced features reminiscent of the Apple Watch, including ECG capabilities and AFib detection algorithms. Priced at $380, the ring is set to launch in February or March.
Read more »
December Stargazing: Spot Venus, Orion Nebula and MoreThis week offers prime stargazing opportunities with the holiday season's darker nights. Look for Orion, Taurus, and the waning crescent moon near Spica, Antares, and Mercury. Telescopes can reveal the wonders of the Orion Nebula (M42).
Read more »
Running chicken nebula glows in gorgeous new image from Very Large Telescope in ChileSamantha Mathewson joined Space.com as an intern in the summer of 2016. She received a B.A. in Journalism and Environmental Science at the University of New Haven, in Connecticut. Previously, her work has been published in Nature World News.
Read more »
10 Characters Who Are More Important in the MCU Than in the ComicsNebula in Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3
Read more »
Samsung Updates Galaxy Ring with Sleep Tracking and Mindfulness FeaturesSamsung enhances its Galaxy Ring with new sleep and mindfulness features available through the Health app. The ring analyzes data from connected SmartThings devices to provide personalized sleep environment reports and suggest optimal bedtimes and wake-up times. A new mindfulness tracker helps manage mood, breathing, and stress levels. Additionally, the Galaxy Ring expands its availability to new regions and introduces larger ring sizes.
Read more »
Ultrahuman Unveils Rare: A Luxury Smart Ring Collection at CES 2025Ultrahuman has launched Rare, a new line of luxury smart rings at CES 2025. The rings, priced from $1,900 to $2,200, are available in desert rose, dune, and desert snow (rose gold, gold, and silver) finishes and are marketed as embodying the harmony between nature and technology.
Read more »