How does the universe truly look like? NASA’s telescopes have captured stunning images of fascinating cosmic bodies. Here are 6 real recordings compared with detailed renders for a fresh perspective.
The Sombrero Galaxy, also known as Messier 104, is a beautiful galaxy on the edge of Virgo and Corvus. It’s around 31.1 million light-years from our Milky Way, giving us a peek into the far reaches of the universe.
The Southern Ring Nebula, NGC 3132, is found in the constellation Vela. This bright nebula, about 2,000 light-years from Earth, is a fascinating object for cosmic exploration.
The Pillars of Creation, part of the Eagle Nebula, are towering columns of gas and dust where new stars are born. Located 4-5 light-years away, they symbolize the ongoing creation in the universe.
The Tarantula Nebula, in the Large Magellanic Cloud, is a bright H II region. It's 160,000 light-years away, but if it were as close as the Orion Nebula, it would be so bright it could cast shadows on Earth—a true cosmic marvel.
The Southern Pinwheel Galaxy, or M83, is a stunning barred spiral galaxy located about 15 million light-years away near Hydra and Centaurus. Its intricate spiral design fascinates astronomers.
The Eta Carinae Nebula, found in the Carina constellation, is a vast and complex nebula. Located about 8,500 light-years away in the Carina–Sagittarius Arm of the Milky Way, it’s a distant but breathtaking sight.