NASA has just shared a fascinating image of a cosmic cluster called “Christmas Tree” with an extraordinary shape that resembles a Christmas tree. However, despite its tree-like appearance, the “Christmas Tree” cluster is made up of hundreds of young stars.
The image was created by combining images of the star cluster from various sources, both ground-based and space-based. The distinctive green tree-shaped form was created using optical data from the 0.9-meter WIYN telescope located at the Kitt Peak National Observatory in the Quinlan Mountains of Arizona.
Additionally, the image showcases young stars emitting blue and white light. These lights in the animated version of the image represent observations in X-ray radiation made using the Chandra X-ray space telescope. The background of the image, consisting of white stars, is the result of infrared observations conducted over 20 years ago as part of the Two Micron All Sky Survey.
This extraordinary image of the “Christmas Tree” cluster showcases the beauty and diversity that exists in space. It reminds us of how small we are compared to the universe, while at the same time inspiring us to continue exploring and studying the mysteries of the cosmos.