The new infrared image captured by the VISTA telescope of the European Southern Observatory (ESO) shows a cosmic phenomenon known as the “cosmic chameleon”which is a bright region of space called the Chameleon Complex.
In accordance with spacethis region is a “stellar nursery” about 65 light-years across and is about 522 light-years distant from Earth.
The Chameleon Cloud, also called IC 2631, is the brightest nebula in this region of active star formation and is the focal point of the new ESO image. It is classified as a reflection nebula, which means that it is composed of clouds of dust that reflect the light emitted by nearby stars.
the impressive image
The star HD 97300, one of the youngest, most massive, and brightest stars in its cosmic neighborhood, is the main source of illumination of the nebula in the center of the image.
This star is in the center-right of the field, surrounded by purple interstellar clouds. The bright areas in the photo represent interstellar gas and dust fueled by young stars that are still in the process of forming..
The image captured in infrared light allows scientists observe the cloud coreas infrared light can pass through dust almost unimpeded, unlike optical wavelengths where light from background sources is blocked by dust.
Despite its name, IC 2631 can be seen in the sky for most of the year in the southern hemisphere. This impressive infrared image provides a detailed view of this cosmic region and its dynamic star formation activity.