Santiago, Chile – Scientists using Chile’s Dark Energy Camera (DECam) have captured a stunning image of a supernova remnant located in the southern constellation of Vela. This supernova exploded approximately 11,000 years ago, making it the most studied remnant in the sky and the closest to Earth at 800 light years away.
The DECam recently produced a 1.3 gigapixel image of the remnants of the exploded star. This image is the largest ever taken by the camera and reveals intricate details of the dust filaments and gas tendrils of the remnant spanning across 100 light years. By using three special filters to collect specific colors of light, researchers were able to stack the images to create a high-resolution color composite.
Even though the supernova remnant is visible in the southern hemisphere, nestled between the stars Suhail and Suhail al Muhlif in Vela, it may not appear remarkable to the naked eye. However, when captured through the lens of the DECam, the remnant becomes a mesmerizing display of colors and patterns.
The DECam’s ability to capture wavelengths of light invisible to the human eye, such as infrared, allows for a unique view of the nebula. This feature brings out the wispy gas tendrils extending from the remnant, creating a visually stunning image for astronomers to study.
Despite the explosion occurring over a millennium ago, the remnant continues to expand. The shockwave from the explosion stripped away outer layers of the star, creating a visible shockwave that is still observable today. The core of the original star formed a neutron star known as the Vela Pulsar, emitting radiation beams multiple times per second due to its strong magnetic field.
The image of the Vela supernova remnant serves as a testament to the ongoing mysteries and wonders of the universe, providing researchers with valuable insights into the life cycles of stars and the vast reaches of space. With advancements in technology and research methods, scientists continue to uncover the secrets hidden within these celestial phenomena, deepening our understanding of the cosmos.