This stunning image, captured by the Hubble Space Telescope’s Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3), showcases the enigmatic region known as G35.2-0.7N—a prolific hub for the birth of high-mass stars destined to end their lives in cataclysmic supernovae. These massive stars, even during their formation, wield a profound influence on their cosmic neighborhood. Within the depicted region lies at least one B-type star, the second most massive star type, and it plays a central role in the dazzling celestial spectacle we witness here.
Situated approximately 7,200 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Aquila, this awe-inspiring image unveils the intricate details of G35.2-0.7N.
It’s worth noting that this captivating image was pieced together from data collected primarily for specialized research purposes, a common practice for many Hubble Pictures of the Week. One of the research objectives involved measuring the extent of ionization within the dynamic jets expelled by the hidden protostar nestled within G35.2-0.7N. Ionization, a process in which atoms or molecules become charged, is a consequence of the high-energy environment within these regions, often leading to the loss of electrons from these particles.
Protostellar jets, colossal beams of matter, surge forth from these celestial nurseries. These jets exhibit a unique characteristic—they maintain a focused, parallel trajectory, resulting in their narrow, column-like appearance. This alignment ensures that the ejected matter extends over great distances in relatively straight paths, giving rise to the mesmerizing visual spectacle portrayed in this image.
Much of the surrounding nebula remains shrouded in darkness, with Hubble’s view obscured by the dense dust clouds that birth these colossal stars.
Towards the center of the image, a conspicuous orange streak comes into view, signifying a cavity sculpted by the forceful jet emanating from the star. This cavity exposes glimpses of the protostar’s radiance, yet the pervasive dust imparts a fiery orange hue to the light, underscoring the profound influence of cosmic dust. The massive protostar itself can be found at the very lower-left edge of this cavity, a celestial marvel in the making.
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