This image shows the pillars as seen in infrared light, allowing it to pierce through obscuring dust and gas and unveil a more unfamiliar — but just as amazing — view of the pillars. In this ethereal view the entire frame is peppered with bright stars and baby stars are revealed being formed within the pillars themselves. The ghostly outlines of the pillars seem much more delicate, and are silhouetted against an eerie blue haze. Hubble also captured the pillars in visible light.

M16, Pillars of Creation in Infrared Light

Observing in infrared light, Hubble pierced through the obscuring gas and dust of M16’s Pillars of Creation. This ethereal image reveals the young stars that are being formed within the pillars. It also uncovers a myriad of background stars that were hidden at visible wavelengths. For more information about Hubble’s observations of M16, see: hubblesite.org/contents/news-releases/2015/news-2015-01.html hubblesite.org/contents/news-releases/2005/news-2005-12.html hubblesite.org/contents/media/images/1995/44/351-Image.html

Credits: NASA, ESA, and the Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA)
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TakenJanuary 5, 2015
Image CreditNASA, ESA, and the Hubble Heritage Team (STScI/AURA)
Size640x600px