M2-9 with Adaptive Optics
Color composite adaptive optics image of the planetary nebula M2-9 using the ALTAIR adaptive optics system on Gemini North. This image reveals remarkable details in the dynamic gas outflows from a dying star. It is thought that our Sun might meet a similar fate in 4-5 billion years once its hydrogen nuclear fuel becomes scarce and instabilities expel gas into space. The concentric shells of gas are still a mystery to astronomers and these data will help to understand the complexities surrounding this beautiful object. Technical Details: Image made from near-infrared images in K' band (green), K+H2=1-0 (violet) and FeII (orange). Field of view is 38.5 x 42.5 arcseconds with the Gemini Near Infrared Imager (NIRI) at f/14.
Credit:International Gemini Observatory
About the Image
Id: | gemini-20080825-m2-9-0001 |
Type: | Observation |
Release date: | Nov. 22, 2005 |
Size: | 850 x 850 px |
About the Object
Wallpapers
Coordinates
Position (RA): | 17 5 37.95 |
Position (Dec): | -10° 8' 32.26" |
Field of view: | 0.69 x 0.69 arcminutes |
Orientation: | North is 45.2° right of vertical |
Colors & filters
Band | Wave-length | Tele-scope |
---|---|---|
Infrared H2 1-0 S(1) | 2.123 μm | Gemini North NIRI |
Infrared K | 2.2 μm | Gemini North NIRI |
Infrared Fell | 1.644 μm | Gemini North NIRI |