Posted on 03/28/2024 1:12:27 PM PDT by MtnClimber
Explanation: Globular star cluster Omega Centauri, also known as NGC 5139, is 15,000 light-years away. The cluster is packed with about 10 million stars much older than the Sun within a volume about 150 light-years in diameter. It's the largest and brightest of 200 or so known globular clusters that roam the halo of our Milky Way galaxy. Though most star clusters consist of stars with the same age and composition, the enigmatic Omega Cen exhibits the presence of different stellar populations with a spread of ages and chemical abundances. In fact, Omega Cen may be the remnant core of a small galaxy merging with the Milky Way. With a yellowish hue, Omega Centauri's red giant stars are easy to pick out in this sharp, color telescopic view.
I had a similar reaction. Even as an accomplished guitarist, the complexity and virtuosity overwhelmed me. When I listen to music I play along in my head -- some stuff I know cold, others I can't play but imagine that I could learn them. But stuff that I can't even follow... well it's sort of like "out" jazz sax/trumpet riffing, a solid sonic wall -- I eventually lose track and once that happens it's no longer as enjoyable.
I will say that decades ago, with ingestion of the proper psychotropics, I could let it become background sound, and that was fine. But I don't do that sith any more.
Imagine the night sky if your star was closer. If in the cluster even the daylight view would be stars everywhere. Along with lots of radiation...
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