In a stunning display of cosmic beauty, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has shared a stunning image of a Wolf-Rayet star called WR 31a.
Located about 30,000 light-years away in the constellation Carina, this hot, massive star is named after astronomers Charles Wolf and Georges Rayet, who first discovered these stars. NASA says that “some may even be about 20 times larger than the Sun. However, their lifecycle is only a few million years. In cosmic terms, it’s like the blink of an eye.”
Here’s all you need to know about WR 31a
Wolf–Rayet stars are thought to lose about half their mass in less than 100,000 years. Ultimately, these massive stars will end in a spectacular supernova explosion, scattering stellar material that will contribute to the formation of new stars and planets in the universe.
In the image provided by NASA, the striking blue bubble that surrounds WR 31a is the Wolf-Rayet Nebula.
According to NASA, these round or ring-shaped interstellar clouds of dust and gas form when strong winds interact with the outer layers of hydrogen emitted by Wolf-Rayet stars.
Netizens are mesmerized by the stunning image of the WR 31a, with reactions ranging from awe to intrigue. Comments highlight the star’s beauty, with one user even comparing it to “Photoshop”.
Others called it ‘beautiful’
Another wrote, “Interesting scene”
One user commented, “I love astronomy, so amazing and interesting”
One user declared, “NASA will never blink when posting.”
Another shared her mixed feelings, saying, “Why do I feel like this is both beautiful and scary at the same time. ,
One user said: “How beautiful. I wish I could see it from Earth.”
