Chandra Release - March 27, 2024

Visual Description: Supernova Remnant 1181


This is a composite image of SNR 1181, the remains of an explosion hundreds of years ago caused by the merger of two stars. 

A bright, multi-colored, spherical nebula sits in the middle of the canvas surrounded by a field of stars that appear as white dots. In the center of the nebula is a small point of aqua-colored light. This is the hot white dwarf star that was left behind after the likely merger of two smaller white dwarfs caused an explosion. From this single point of aqua light, several spectacular rays expand outward, resembling a single firework bursting in celebration in the night sky.