The Horsehead Nebula, a celestial object that has captured the imagination of astronomy enthusiasts worldwide, is showcased in three different perspectives in this image. On the left, the first image, released in November 2023, offers a view of the Horsehead Nebula as observed in visible light by ESA’s Euclid telescope with contributions from NASA. This image provides a stunning glimpse into the beauty and complexity of the nebula.
In the middle, the second image offers a view of the Horsehead Nebula in near-infrared light from NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, which was highlighted as the telescope’s 23rd anniversary image in 2013. This particular image unveils a delicate and intricate structure that is typically obscured by dust. The use of near-infrared light allows for a closer look at the details of this iconic astronomical phenomenon.
On the right, the third image features a new perspective of the Horsehead Nebula captured by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope’s NIRCam (Near-Infrared Camera) instrument. Each image provides a unique insight into this iconic astronomical phenomenon, allowing viewers to appreciate its beauty and complexity from different vantage points. The collaboration and technological advancements that have made these images possible showcase the ongoing exploration and discovery within the field of astronomy.