Houston, Texas – NASA has recently unveiled a stunning 3D visualization of the iconic Pillars of Creation using data from the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope. These breathtaking cosmic structures, located about 5,700 light-years from Earth, are known for being the birthplace of new stars, composed of cool molecular hydrogen and dust.
Through this visualization, viewers can explore the Pillars of Creation in both visible and infrared light, showcasing their three-dimensional structure and highlighting the differences between the two perspectives offered by the different space telescopes. The contrast between the visible-light view from Hubble and the infrared-light view from Webb provides valuable insights into the complexity of these interstellar structures.
According to NASA’s principal visualization scientist, Frank Summers, the new 3D visualization allows viewers to understand why multiple space telescopes are essential for observing different aspects of the same cosmic objects. By combining data from these telescopes, scientists can deepen their understanding of the universe and how stars are formed within these majestic pillars.
The tallest pillar within the Pillars of Creation spans an impressive three light-years from top to bottom, offering a glimpse into the gravitational collapse of hydrogen and dust that leads to the formation of infant stars. As these new stars continue to develop and disperse materials within the pillars, the region remains a focal point for astronomers studying the process of star formation.
Anna McLeod, a scientist from the University of Durham in England, played a crucial role in providing observational data for the visualization project, enhancing our ability to study and appreciate the intricate beauty of the Pillars of Creation. The release of this new video marks a significant advancement in our exploration of these cosmic structures and the ongoing evolution of stars within them.
Mark Clampin, the Astrophysics Division director at NASA Headquarters in Washington, emphasized the importance of combining observations from different space telescopes to enhance our understanding of the universe. The Pillars of Creation region continues to offer valuable insights into the formation of stars, and with this new visualization, individuals around the world can immerse themselves in the captivating landscape of these cosmic pillars.