The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), a joint mission by NASA, ESA, and CSA, has unveiled an extraordinary image and analysis of planetary nebula NGC 6072, deepening our understanding of the life and death of stars. The observations captured through both Webb’s Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) and Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) have revealed the intricate and asymmetric nature of this celestial object, challenging traditional views on the formation of planetary nebulae.

What is a Planetary Nebula?

A planetary nebula is the expanding shell of gas and dust ejected by a low- to intermediate-mass star — such as our Sun — in the final stages of its life. Despite the name, planetary nebulae have no relation to planets. The term originated from their round, planet-like appearance in early telescopes. As the star runs out of nuclear fuel, it sheds its outer layers, which glow due to ionization by the hot stellar core left behind.

NGC 6072: A Complex Portrait

NGC 6072 is located within our galaxy and was first discovered in the 18th century. Unlike the typical circular or elliptical shapes associated with planetary nebulae, NGC 6072 displays a multi-polar, asymmetric structure, resembling splattered paint in Webb's high-resolution images.

Key Observations:

Multiple Elliptical Outflows:

The NIRCam images reveal various jets and outflows in multiple directions from the nebula's core. This suggests the presence of multiple shaping mechanisms — likely more than one star influencing the nebula's evolution.

Binary Star System:

At the heart of NGC 6072, evidence points to a binary star system — where a companion star interacts with the dying star. This interaction could explain the unique patterns, including the disc formation and spiral-shaped gas rings seen in the images.

Hot and Cool Gases:

Near-infrared (NIRCam) detects hot ionized gas, appearing as light blue.

Mid-infrared (MIRI) images reveal cool molecular gas, particularly molecular hydrogen, showing in red and blue hues.

Dust and clumped materials are visible in orange, formed by dense molecules shielded from the central star's radiation.

Concentric Rings and Spirals:

MIRI’s view uncovers concentric rings of material around the central region. These rings may result from the gravitational influence of the secondary star orbiting the dying one, shaping the ejected material into a spiral over time.

Scientific Significance

NGC 6072’s complex structure offers valuable insight into the late stages of stellar evolution:

Mass Loss Mechanisms:

The nebula’s shape and composition demonstrate how stars can lose up to 80% of their mass, enriching the surrounding interstellar medium with heavier elements like carbon and oxygen.

Formation of New Stars:

The material ejected from planetary nebulae like NGC 6072 feeds the galaxy, becoming part of the clouds that form new stars and planetary systems. This process is a key contributor to the cosmic cycle of matter.

Binary Influence:

The study strengthens the hypothesis that binary star systems play a significant role in shaping planetary nebulae. The gravitational and radiative interactions between the stars lead to more elaborate and less symmetrical structures.

Conclusion

Webb’s detailed observations of NGC 6072 not only showcase the telescope’s advanced capabilities but also highlight the dynamic and diverse outcomes of stellar death. As scientists continue to study planetary nebulae like NGC 6072, they gain a clearer picture of how stars evolve, die, and continue to influence the universe long after their light fades.

These discoveries deepen our understanding of cosmic evolution — from the life cycles of stars to the birth of future worlds.

Image Credit: ESA/Webb

Source: Webb Science Release