What is the name of the dark lane structure visible cutting through the glowing interior of the Carina Nebula?
Answer
The Keyhole
A recognizable feature frequently observed in images of the Carina Nebula, particularly those taken by the Hubble Space Telescope, is a dark lane named the Keyhole. This apparent void is not empty space but is actually an extremely dense and opaque cloud composed of dust and gas. Because this cloud is so thick, it effectively blocks the visible light generated by the glowing ionized gas and stars situated behind it, creating the appearance of a dark gap or lane cutting through the nebula's luminous expanse.
Related Questions
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