The Hydrogen Clouds of M33
Explanation:
Gorgeous spiral galaxy M33 seems to have more than its fair share of
glowing hydrogen gas.
A prominent member of the local group of galaxies, M33 is also
known as the
Triangulum Galaxy and
lies about 3 million light-years distant.
Its inner 30,000 light-years are shown in this
telescopic
galaxy portrait
that enhances the reddish ionized hydrogen
clouds or
HII regions.
Sprawling along loose spiral arms that wind toward the core,
M33's giant HII regions are some of the
largest known stellar nurseries,
sites of the formation of short-lived but very massive stars.
Intense ultraviolet radiation from the luminous, massive stars ionizes the
surrounding hydrogen gas and ultimately produces the characteristic red
glow.
To enhance this image, broadband data was used to produce a color view
of the galaxy and combined with narrowband data recorded through a
hydrogen-alpha filter, transmitting the light of the strongest hydrogen
emission line.
To see the monochromatic narrowband data alone,
move your cursor over the image, or take this
video tour of the hydrogen clouds
of M33.
Authors & editors:
Robert Nemiroff
(MTU) &
Jerry Bonnell
(USRA)
NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings,
and Disclaimers
NASA Official: Jay Norris.
Specific
rights apply.
A service of:
LHEA at
NASA /
GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
