d The sharpest, most detailed infrared images of the Horsehead Nebula (also known as Barnard 33) have been captured by MIRI and NIRCam on the James Webb Space Telescope.
Nestled within the constellation of Orion, approximately 1300 light years from Earth, the nebula emerged from a collapsing cloud of interstellar material. Its glow emanates from the illumination of a nearby hot star. While the surrounding gas clouds have dissipated, the distinct pillar of the Horsehead Nebula remains as it is made of denser material that is harder to erode.
Astronomers estimate that the Horsehead has about five million years left before it too disintegrates.
The new images from JWST focus on the illuminated edge of the top of the Horsehead Nebula's 'mane' a distinctive dust and gas structure. Providing insight into the nebula's physical structure, chemical evolution and how radiation interacts with interstellar material.
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