What Makes the Pillars of Creation So Captivating?

The Pillars of Creation, located in the heart of the Eagle Nebula, have fascinated astronomers and the public alike since they were first captured by NASA's Hubble Space Telescope in 1995. Now, a new 3D visualization combining data from both the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes offers the most detailed and comprehensive view yet of these star-forming clouds.

How Do Hubble and Webb's Views Differ?

This groundbreaking visualization contrasts the visible-light observations from Hubble with the infrared-light data from Webb, providing a multidimensional perspective of the Pillars of Creation. "By flying past and amongst the pillars, viewers experience their three-dimensional structure and see how they look different in the Hubble visible-light view versus the Webb infrared-light view," explained Frank Summers, principal visualization scientist at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI).

What Insights Does the New Visualization Offer?

The new 3D visualization reveals how the fierce winds and ultraviolet light from nearby young stars are eroding the cool molecular hydrogen and dust that form the pillars. This erosion creates finger-like protrusions that house embryonic stars. The tallest pillar spans three light-years, illustrating the immense scale of these structures.

How Was This Visualization Created?

The visualization is based on observational data from a science paper led by Anna McLeod, an associate professor at the University of Durham. The project, developed by STScI and NASA's Universe of Learning, demonstrates the collaborative power of combining data from multiple telescopes to enhance our understanding of the universe.

Why Are Combined Observations Important?

Mark Clampin, Astrophysics Division director at NASA Headquarters, emphasizes that combining observations from different telescopes allows for a broader understanding of the universe. Hubble captures the glow of objects in visible light, while Webb’s infrared vision reveals cooler objects obscured by dust, such as newly forming stars within the pillars.

How Can You Experience This Visualization?

The 3D visualization is part of a narrated video produced by NASA’s Universe of Learning, aimed at youth, families, and lifelong learners. It not only showcases the pillars but also highlights various stages of star formation, including the presence of protostars and newborn stars.

How Can You Engage Further?

NASA has also provided a 3D printable model of the Pillars of Creation, allowing enthusiasts to explore these structures in a tactile way. Additional educational materials and interactive tools are available through NASA's Universe of Learning and the ViewSpace video exhibit, which is displayed in museums and planetariums across the United States.