From Denny: "Where stars are born" takes on new meaning when talking about the cosmic universe! The pillar is actually composed of gases and star dust. This nebula is one happening place for it is a tempestuous environment.
How far away is this star birthing nebula? About 7,500 light years and located in the southern constellation of Carina.
This newest image of this nebula gives a crisper look at the details not previously seen yet are now visible from near-infrared light.
How is this pillar being sculpted? It's a violent sculpting environment of scorching radiation and fast winds which are streams of charged particles from these stars. The result is that new stars form within this new artwork.
Check out what is going on at the top of the pillar structure: streamers of gas and dust flowing off. Very cool photos, NASA, thanks!
