In the vast aquarium of the cosmos, a new baby is born - the Stingray Nebula!
In the vast aquarium of the cosmos, a new baby is born - the Stingray Nebula! Officially known as Hen 3-1357, this celestial newborn is the youngest known planetary nebula. A true '80s kid, its vibrant and neon-like appearance lights up the sky. But as any parent will know, they grow up so fast!
In just a few decades, the Stingray Nebula is showcasing rapid changes. With its wingspan stretching about 130 times the size of our solar system, it’s already making waves in the astronomical community. Before long, it will be time for cosmic college, then off into the big wide universe.
Located 18,000 light-years away in the constellation Ara, this nebula's central star, SAO 244567, has been heating up and ejecting material, creating a spectacular light show.