In 1999, the most powerful X-ray telescope in the world launched and has orbiting Earth ever since, peering at black holes, stellar explosions and dark energy.
Though we can’t see them, X-rays are widespread in outer space. They emanate from some of the most powerful - and mysterious - objects in the universe, from black holes to exploded stars to elusive dark energy.
Now, used in conjunction with other space-based observatories, Chandra has contributed to myriad scientific discoveries, and captured almost 25,000 observations in its 25 years. "Chandra has made discovery after amazing discovery,” says Pat Slane, director of the Chandra X-ray Center, located at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.
In recognition of Chandra’s quarter-century in space, astronomers have released a selection of never-before-seen images captured by the telescope. The newly unveiled pictures are composites - many contain a backdrop taken by another space or ground observatory, such as the Hubble Space Telescope, the James Webb Space Telescope or the Very Large Telescope, among others, and overlaid on that is Chandra’s view of X-ray emissions, often depicted in a shade of purple. Here are some of OGN's favourites...
Centaurus A
The galaxy Centaurus A contains a black hole blasting out jets of material into space.
Crab Nebula
The Crab Nebula, the first object in the Messier catalog, has long been observed by humans.
Pillars of Creation
The famous Pillars of Creation are dotted with colourful young stars in the foreground.
Supernova Remnant
A supernova remnant is surrounded in a purple cloud of X-rays.
Cassiopeia A
Supernova remnant Cassiopeia A was first spotted on Earth around 340 years ago.
Spiral Galaxy
Spiral galaxy NGC 6872 interacts with a smaller, nearby galaxy that's robbing gas from its larger companion.
The Cosmic Hand
MSH 15-52, a pulsar wind nebula, looks like a cosmic hand.
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