zoom_in Click to enlarge

B68

▲ ▼

description B68 Overview

B68 is a dark nebula and isolated Bok globule located in the southern constellation Ophiuchus. It is composed of dense molecular dust and gas that effectively blocks the light of background stars, creating a stark silhouette against the starfield. Astronomers have mapped its internal structure and density by analyzing the infrequent stars visible through its outer layers, confirming it is on the verge of gravitational collapse. The nebula provides a valuable observation point for studying the very early stages of star formation.

help B68 FAQ

What type of astronomical object is B68?

B68 is an isolated Bok globule, which is a dense, dark cloud of cosmic gas and dust. These dense molecular clouds are notable because they are often the birthplaces of new stars, though B68 itself is highly opaque.

Where is the B68 nebula located?

B68 is located in the southern constellation of Ophiuchus. It is situated relatively nearby in astronomical terms, making it a frequent target for detailed observation by astronomers studying star formation.

How do astronomers study the interior of a dark nebula like B68?

Because B68's interior is so dense that visible light cannot pass through it, astronomers map its structure by observing background starlight in near-infrared wavelengths. By measuring how the cloud dims and reddens the background stars, they can calculate the precise density of the dust inside the globule.

Will the B68 dark cloud ever form a star?

Astronomers believe that B68 is currently stable, but it could potentially form a low-mass star in the future if it enters a phase of gravitational collapse. However, it has not yet shown the strong internal collapse required to ignite nuclear fusion.

swap_horiz

Looking for B68 alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward