Cosmic Clash: Stars Versus Pillars in NGC 602
A newimage from the James Webb Space Telescope reveals a dramatic cosmic battle unfolding in the star cluster NGC602, located in the Small Magellanic Cloud. The image, captured in multiple infrared colors, showcases a breathtaking clash between newly formed stars andthe pillars of gas and dust that birthed them.
The stars, radiating intense energy, are actively eroding the very pillars that nurtured their creation.This process, known as photoevaporation, is clearly visible in the Webb image, where the pillars appear to be dissolving under the onslaught of stellar radiation.
Simultaneously, the pillars themselves are still actively forming new stars. Thisongoing cycle of creation and destruction is a testament to the dynamic nature of star formation. The Webb image provides an unprecedented glimpse into this intricate process, revealing details that were previously obscured by dust and gas.
A comparison with a previous imagetaken by the Hubble Space Telescope in visible light highlights the power of Webb’s infrared vision. The Hubble image shows a dense, opaque cloud, while the Webb image reveals the intricate structure of the pillars and the stars embedded within them.
NGC 602, located near the edge of the Small Magellanic Cloud, is a prime example of a star-forming region. This region, along with other star-forming regions in the SMC, provides astronomers with valuable insights into the processes that govern the birth and evolution of stars.
The Webb image of NGC 602 is a powerful reminder of the ongoing dance betweencreation and destruction in the universe. It showcases the intricate interplay of forces that shape the cosmos, and provides a window into the birth of stars and the evolution of galaxies.
References:
- ESA/Webb, NASA & CSA, P. Zeidler, E. Sabbi, A. Nota, M.Zamani (ESA/Webb)
- APOD: 2024 October 29 – NGC 602: Stars Versus Pillars from Webb
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