NASA Hubble Captures Rapid Transformation of Calabash Nebula

USA: NASA Hubble Captures Rapid Transformation of Calabash Nebula

Key Observation

NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has recorded an image of the Calabash Nebula, a low‑mass star undergoing a swift change from a red giant to a planetary nebula, with expelled gas moving at close to a million kilometres an hour. The nebula lies over 5000 light‑years away in the constellation Puppis.

Nomenclature and Appearance

The object, technically designated OH 231.8+04.2, is also known as the Rotten Egg Nebula because its sulfur‑rich composition can emit a smell reminiscent of rotten eggs when combined with other elements.

Stellar Evolution Phase

During this brief phase, the star sheds its outer layers of gas and dust, creating bipolar outflows that are expelled in opposite directions at extreme speed.

Rarity of Capture

Astronomers rarely observe a star in this stage, as the transformation occurs within a blink of an eye on astronomical timescales.

Future Development

Models predict that over the next thousand years the nebula will evolve into a fully developed planetary nebula, offering a clear view of the later stages of stellar death.

Scientific Significance

The observation provides valuable data for researchers studying the life cycles of stars similar to the Sun, enhancing understanding of how planetary nebulae form.

Dieser Bericht basiert auf Informationen von NASA, lizenziert unter Public Domain (U.S. Government Work).