Astronomers Reveal 3D Ellipsoidal Shape of Iconic Ring Nebula

Astronomers have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the structure of the famous Ring Nebula, revealing it to be ellipsoidal rather than the previously assumed ring shape. Utilizing the Smithsonian Submillimeter Array (SMA) located on Mauna Kea, the research team successfully mapped the emission of carbon monoxide gas to determine this three-dimensional structure.

The study, led by Professor Joel Kastner from the Rochester Institute of Technology, utilized SMA radio-wavelength mapping to uncover the cold, molecular gas that surrounds the hot gas and dust visible in images captured by the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope. “We looked at the data and the ellipsoidal structure was obvious, so we could put together a simple geometrical model,” Kastner stated. He emphasized that this new understanding enhances the overall knowledge of the nebula’s formation and evolution.

The research revealed that approximately 6,000 years have passed since the dying star, once a red giant, expelled the molecular gas that now envelops the nebula. The SMA data provided crucial insights into the velocities of carbon monoxide molecules, allowing astronomers to assess which components of the nebula are moving toward or away from Earth. This capability to measure velocity is a unique advantage, as it provides a clearer picture of the nebula’s dynamics than what can be inferred from traditional telescopic images.

Astronomers had previously theorized that the Ring Nebula might be shaped like a soap bubble or a perfect ring. However, the new modeling from SMA data confirmed its ellipsoidal nature. The mapping also indicated the presence of high-velocity gas blobs, which appear to be ejected from the ends of the ellipsoidal shell, hinting at gravitational interactions with a companion star located at the center of the nebula.

This research not only advances the understanding of the Ring Nebula but also highlights the capabilities of modern astronomical tools. The combination of SMA and space-based observatories like the Hubble and James Webb telescopes allows for a more comprehensive study of celestial phenomena.

Looking ahead, several astronomical events are set to unfold in the coming days. On September 21, Saturn will reach its closest proximity to Earth, becoming fully illuminated by the sun. This event offers the best opportunity for viewing the planet throughout the year, with visibility throughout the night. Observers with medium-sized or larger telescopes will be able to see Saturn’s iconic rings and its brightest moons.

The September equinox occurs on September 22, marking the official start of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. During this time, the sun will shine directly over the equator, resulting in nearly equal day and night across the globe.

Following this, September 23 will see Neptune at its closest approach to Earth, fully illuminated by the sun as well. However, due to its significant distance, Neptune will only be observable through the most powerful telescopes.

Evening observing opportunities present a captivating night sky, with prominent star formations. The star line Manaiakalani will dominate the sky at 20:00, complemented by the Milky Way stretching across the southern horizon. As the evening progresses, the setting of Ka‘iwikuamo‘o will reveal the Kalupeakawelo constellation in the eastern direction.

Early risers can enjoy the morning sky at 05:00, as the star line Kekaomakali‘i reaches its zenith, signaling the transition toward winter. This star line features notable constellations, including Orion and the Pleiades, alongside the brightest star, A‘a (Sirius).

For further updates and detailed insights about the Ring Nebula and other astronomical phenomena, interested readers can visit the Rochester Institute of Technology news release at rit.edu/news/rit-professor-leads-research-showing-true-structure-iconic-ring-nebula.