Description:
Found within the southern constellation Vela, this expansive remnant tells the story of a Type II supernova from about 11,000–12,300 years ago, situated approximately 800 light-years from us.
This particular image holds a special place for me. It’s meticulously crafted over 18 panels, culminating in a detailed resolution of 18,000×12,000 pixels. To capture this, I spent 18 nights across two months under the often unpredictable Melbourne skies. The challenge was real, but every clear night, every detail captured, made the endeavor entirely worthwhile.
Back in 1968, researchers from the University of Sydney made a fascinating discovery, linking the Vela supernova remnant with the Vela pulsar, providing pivotal evidence of neutron star formation post-supernovae. This image also offers a glimpse of NGC 2736 and the more distant Puppis A supernova remnant. It’s a testament to the marvels our universe holds, and the lengths we go to capture them.
Beyond its academic significance, what you see here is enhanced by RGB stars, giving depth and nuance to an already rich celestial tableau. The project was both a technical and personal journey, pushing the boundaries of astrophotography and deepening my appreciation for the wonders above.
