The Orion Nebula as You’ve Never Seen it Before: Jaw-dropping New Image

[n2doc]

This image, obtained during the late commissioning phase of the GeMS adaptive optics system, with the Gemini South AO Imager (GSAOI) on the night of December 28, 2012, reveals exquisite details in the outskirts of the Orion Nebula. Gemini Observatory/AURA


This is the part of the Orion nebula. Recognize it? You may not, as this stunning new image comes from the Gemini Observatory’s recently-commissioned advanced adaptive optics (AO) system named GeMS. It shows clumps of gas ejected from deep within the Orion Nebula which are called Orion Bullets.

“The combination of a constellation of five laser guide stars with multiple deformable mirrors allows us to expand significantly on what has previously been possible using adaptive optics in astronomy,” said Benoit Neichel, who currently leads this adaptive optics program for Gemini. “For years our team has focused on developing this system, and to see this magnificent image, just hinting at its scientific potential, made our nights on the mountain – while most folks were celebrating the New Year’s holiday – the best celebration ever!”


Read more: http://www.universetoday.com/99357/the-orion-nebula-as-youve-never-seen-it-before-jaw-dropping-new-image-from-gemini/

http://www.gemini.edu/node/11925

[Sekhmets Daughter]

1. Thank you! I now have new desktop wallpaper! n/t

[CrazyOrangeCat]

2. Thank you. Absolutely stunning . . .

[WillyT]

3. WOW !!! - K & R !!!

And thank you !!!

[Overseas]

4. K&R. Amazing!

[FourScore]

5. How do they DO this? n/t

[VWolf]

7. They use mirrors

... literally.

[alfredo]

6. Beautiful beautiful

[leveymg]

8. Space is far from black and empty

THIS is truly awesome.

[krispos42]

9. *blink*

[CrispyQ]

10. Star stuff.

Beautiful.