Stars
A look at different wavelengths and telescopes used to capture an image of stars
Exploring the Christmas tree nebula
A recent image of the Christmas Tree Cluster, also known as NGC 2264, has been created using various wavelengths and telescopes. The gas in the image is seen in the optical category and appears green, thanks to observations from the WIYN Observatory. The foreground and background, shown in white, were captured in infrared using the Two Micron All Sky Survey (2MASS). However, what really makes this image special is the data from Chandra, which shows actual stars in X-ray wavelengths, appearing as blinking blue and white in the animated image.
The variations in brightness seen in the Christmas Tree Cluster may be due to magnetic fields. These fields can create powerful stellar flares, similar to the ones emitted by young stars. While our sun also has flares, those produced by young stars are more energetic and frequent. The overall change in brightness of the star can be observed to see the effects of these flares.
The Christmas Tree Cluster is part of NGC 2264 and is located 2,500 light-years away from Earth. The stars in this cluster vary in mass, ranging from about 7 to 0.1 times the mass of our sun.
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Strange 'slide whistle' fast radio burst baffles astronomers
A mysterious fast radio burst (FRB) that sounds like a 'slide whistle' has been detected by an alien-hunting telescope. This FRB, unlike any others observed before, has left astronomers puzzled about its origin and characteristics. With no clear explanation yet, scientists are intrigued by this bizarre phenomenon.
The FRB was picked up by the Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME) telescope, which is designed to search for signs of extraterrestrial intelligence. Its unique sound resembles a 'slide whistle' or a fast-changing musical tone.
Further research and analysis are being conducted to better understand this strange 'slide whistle' FRB and unravel its mysteries. It serves as a reminder of the countless wonders and mysteries that the universe still holds.
