description Southern Crab Nebula (Hen 2-104) Overview
The Southern Crab Nebula, designated Hen 2-104, is a nebula located in the constellation Centaurus. It is classified as a symbiotic nebula, meaning it is formed by a binary star system consisting of a red giant and a white dwarf. The nebula has a bipolar structure with nested hourglass shapes created by material ejected from the stars. The Hubble Space Telescope captured detailed images of the nebula in 1999.
help Southern Crab Nebula (Hen 2-104) FAQ
Where is the Southern Crab Nebula located?
The Southern Crab Nebula, officially designated as Hen 2-104, is located in the southern constellation of Centaurus. It is situated thousands of light-years away from Earth.
What kind of star system creates the Southern Crab Nebula?
The Southern Crab Nebula is classified as a symbiotic nebula, which means it is formed by a binary star system. This specific system consists of a red giant star and a white dwarf.
Why does the Southern Crab Nebula have an hourglass shape?
The nebula features a distinct bipolar structure with nested hourglass shapes caused by the red giant periodically shedding its outer layers. The white dwarf then draws in this material and expels it in symmetrical outbursts.
When was the Southern Crab Nebula first cataloged?
The nebula was designated Hen 2-104 when it was cataloged by astronomer Karl Gordon Henize in the mid-20th century. It was later imaged in high resolution by the Hubble Space Telescope.
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