2-Channel RCW 49
Sig08 018

Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/E. Churchwell (University of Wisconsin - Madison)

Observation • December 24th, 2008 • sig08-018

sig08-018

This image of prolific star-forming region RCW 49 exposes breathtaking detail of this dark and dusty region, which is home to more than 2,200 stars. Shown here in two channels, 3.6 microns mapped as cyan and 4.5 microns mapped as red, dusty organic molecules called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) glow in the warmth of the starlight. At 4.5 microns, hot hydrogen gas glows very brightly, much like a neon light glowing in visible light, and can be prominently seen in the image.

About the Object

Name
NGC 3247RCW 49Gum 29
Type
Nebula > Type > Star Formation
Nebula > Appearance > Emission > H II Region
Distance
13,700 Light Years

Color Mapping

Band Wavelength Telescope
Infrared 3.6 µm Spitzer IRAC
Infrared 4.5 µm Spitzer IRAC

Astrometrics

Position (J2000)
RA =10h 23m 57.2s
Dec = -57° 45' 9.0"
Field of View
30.4 x 30.4 arcminutes
Orientation
North is 32.3° right of vertical