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

Name:M2-9
Constellation:Ophiuchus
Category:Nebulae

Image Formats

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102.1 KB
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Coordinates

ObjectValue
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

BandWave-lengthTele-scope
Infrared
H2 1-0 S(1)
2.123 μmGemini North
NIRI
Infrared
K
2.2 μmGemini North
NIRI
Infrared
Fell
1.644 μmGemini North
NIRI