The European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA are celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Hubble Space Telescope by releasing a stunning new image of the Eagle Nebula. This vast stellar nursery is home to a towering spire of cosmic gas and dust, revealed through improved data processing techniques.
The pillar of cold gas and dust measures 9.5 light-years in height, standing out against the vibrant colors of the surrounding nebula. The image was captured using new image processing techniques developed since its previous release two decades ago.
Located beyond this pillar lies a cluster of young stars that have excavated an immense cavity in the centre of the nebula, creating otherworldly pillars and globules of dusty gas. This phenomenon occurs when powerful radiation and winds from infant stars expose regions with denser gas.
The Eagle Nebula is part of the Milky Way’s diverse collection of nebulae, which take on fantastical shapes due to the effects of radiation and stellar winds. The Hubble Space Telescope has captured many breathtaking images of these celestial objects over its 35-year history.
Source: https://esahubble.org/news/heic2507