What intricate structures were revealed in NGC 3132 by the Hubble Space Telescope?
Answer
Intricate structures showcasing complex arcs and shells of gas.
The nebula NGC 3132, also known as the Southern Ring Nebula or Eight-Burst Nebula, serves as a prime example of complexity revealed through advanced imaging. Observations, particularly those facilitated by the Hubble Space Telescope, were able to resolve details showing that the outflow was not simple, but rather composed of intricate structures, specifically complex arcs and distinct shells of gas. This indicated that the mass ejection likely occurred over several discrete events rather than one continuous, steady stream.
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