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This image shows the RCW 38 star cluster, captured by the HAWK-I infrared imager mounted on ESO's Very Large Telescope (VLT) in Chile. Looking into infrared wavelengths, HAWK-I can examine dust-clad star clusters like RCW 38, providing an unparalleled view of the stars that form there.
This cluster contains hundreds of hot, massive young stars. -years in the constellation of Vela (Les Voiles).
The central area of RCW 38 is visible here as a bright, blue region, an area inhabited by many very young and protostar stars that are still forming. The intense radiation emanating from these new stars makes the surrounding gas shine.
This contrasts sharply with the colder cosmic dust flowing through the region, which glows softly in shades of red and orange. Contrast creates this spectacular scene – a piece of heavenly art
Previous images of this region taken in optical wavelengths are surprisingly different – optical images appear more starless at because of the dust and gas blocking our cluster view. The observations in the infrared however allow us to scan the dust that obscures the view in the optics and plunge into the heart of this cluster of stars.
HAWK-I is installed on the VLT's Unit Telescope 4 (Yepun), and operates at near-infrared wavelengths. He has many scientific roles including obtaining images of nearby galaxies or large nebulae as well as individual stars and exoplanets.
GRAAL is an adaptive optics module that helps HAWK-I produce these spectacular images. It uses four laser beams projected into the night sky, which act as artificial reference stars, used to correct the effects of atmospheric turbulence – providing a sharper image.
This image was captured as part of a series of observations. – a process known as scientific verification – for HAWK-I and GRAAL. These tests are an integral part of the commissioning of a new instrument on the VLT and include a set of standard scientific observations that verify and demonstrate the capabilities of the new instrument.
Related Links
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Stellar Chemistry, the Universe and All Elements
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NASA completes the journal Webb Telescope, s & Committed to launch in early 2021
Washington DC (SPX) June 28, 2018
The Independent Review Board (IRB) established by NASA to evaluate the progress of its space telescope James Webb recommended unanimously that the development of the world's first scientific observatory continues; NASA has set a new launch date for Webb on March 30, 2021.
A report released by the review panel addresses a series of factors influencing the timing and performance of Webb, including the technical challenges and remaining tasks of the lead contractor Northrop Grumman prior to its launch.
… read more
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