Posted on 03/12/2015 3:39:57 AM PDT by SunkenCiv
Explanation: The W-shaped ridge of emission featured in this vivid skyscape is known as the Cygnus Wall. Part of a larger emission nebula with a distinctive outline popularly called The North America Nebula, the cosmic ridge spans about 20 light-years. Constructed using narrowband data to highlight the telltale reddish glow from ionized hydrogen atoms recombining with electrons, the two frame mosaic image follows an ionization front with fine details of dark, dusty forms in silhouette. Sculpted by energetic radiation from the region's young, hot, massive stars, the dark shapes inhabiting the view are clouds of cool gas and dust with stars likely forming within. The North America Nebula itself, NGC 7000, is about 1,500 light-years away.
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[Credit and Copyright: Jimmy Walker]
Appreciate the pings SC.
These images are a good thing to look at.
Obviously, Bush’s fault, imposing his initial on the heavens. . . . (grin)
I heard the gaseous mass behind it is heading our way and the wall is the only thing stopping. We’re in deep doodoo. The chinese need to get crackin’ on this.
I wonder what Geddy Lee thinks about this.
I haven’t even minded some of the terrestrial shots this month. :’)
I look at these images and wish we could do some sort of hundred thousand-year time lapse video showing the creation and expansion of these beautiful nebulae.
Oh well, I’ll settle for the still photo. Thanks for the ping, as always.
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