The European Space Agency (ESA) is celebrating its 35th anniversary by releasing a new image series of the Eagle Nebula, one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring nebulae in the Milky Way. The images, created using the latest Hubble data and processing techniques, offer a fresh perspective on this stunning celestial wonder.
At the center of the eagle-shaped nebula lies a cluster of young stars that have excavated an immense cavity, shaping otherworldly pillars and globules of dusty gas. One pillar stands out, stretching 9.5 light-years tall and made of cold gas and dust. This feature is just one small part of the larger Eagle Nebula, also known as Messier 16.
The nebula’s unique shape was inspired by its appearance, with dark clouds giving it an eagle-like silhouette. The Eagle Nebula is home to many more wonders, including the famous Pillars of Creation, which were first photographed by Hubble in 1995 and again in 2015.
Hubble’s impressive image reveals how nebulae take on fantastical shapes when exposed to powerful radiation and winds from infant stars. Denser regions can withstand these forces and remain as dusty sculptures. The Hubble Space Telescope has been operating for over three decades, making groundbreaking discoveries that continue to shape our understanding of the universe.
The partnership between NASA and ESA has made Hubble a symbol of international cooperation in space exploration. With its ongoing operations, Hubble remains an essential tool for astronomers seeking to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos.
Source: https://science.nasa.gov/missions/hubble/hubble-spies-cosmic-pillar-in-eagle-nebula