Unveiling the Celestial Beauty: Kohoutek 3-46, the Red Butterfly of the Cosmos
- A planetary nebula is an astronomical object that emits light when a relatively light star such as the Sun evolves from a red giant star to a white...
- Kohoutek 3-46 is one such example and is estimated to be about 20,000 years old.
- Located in the constellation Cygnus, Kohoutek 3-46 is a stunning example of a planetary nebula, with its unique shape and vibrant colors.
Today’s “Space Image”: Planetary Nebula “Kohoutek 3-46”
Source: Sorae Portal Site for the Universe
A planetary nebula is an astronomical object that emits light when a relatively light star such as the Sun evolves from a red giant star to a white dwarf, during which its outer layer of gas is expelled and the gas is ionized by ultraviolet radiation from the central core star.
Kohoutek 3-46 is one such example and is estimated to be about 20,000 years old. This nebula has a “bipolar structure” that can be compared to an hourglass or a butterfly, and about 10-20% of planetary nebulae appear to have a similar structure.
Located in the constellation Cygnus, Kohoutek 3-46 is a stunning example of a planetary nebula, with its unique shape and vibrant colors. The image was taken with the Gemini North telescope at the Gemini Astronomical Observatory.
Like a butterfly dancing in the starry sky, the planetary nebula “Kohoutek 3-46” is a breathtaking sight to behold. Its beauty is a reminder of the awe-inspiring wonders of the universe.
Image source: International Gemini Observatory/NOIRLab/NSF/AURA
Image processing: J. Miller (International Gemini Observatory/NSF’s NOIRLab), M. Rodriguez (International Gemini Observatory/NSF’s NOIRLab) and M. Zamani (NSF’s NOIRLab)