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Stunning 80-Million-Pixel Image Reveals RCW 38 Star Cluster

2/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Astronomers have unveiled a stunning 80-million-pixel image of the RCW 38 star cluster, a dazzling collection of around 2,000 stars nestled 5,500 light-years away in Vela. This young cluster, less than a million years old, is shrouded in gas and dust, with VISTA's infrared technology illuminating the secrets of star formation within.

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Story summary

Astronomers have unveiled a stunning 80-million-pixel image of the RCW 38 star cluster, a dazzling collection of around 2,000 stars nestled 5,500 light-years away in Vela. This young cluster, less than a million years old, is shrouded in gas and dust, with VISTA's infrared technology illuminating the secrets of star formation within.