Space enthusiasts eagerly await fresh visuals from NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, and the latest releases spotlight the intriguingly dubbed Exposed Cranium Nebula, formally identified as Nebula PMR 1. These photographs depict what might be the concluding phase of a stellar life cycle while offering clues about the formation of its distinctive brain-shaped structure.
According to NASA's update, the nebula features varied zones reflecting its developmental stages, including an external layer of primarily hydrogen gas ejected initially and a more intricate central area composed of diverse gaseous elements. The prominent vertical dark streak contributing to its head-like look may stem from an eruption or ejection by the core star, often manifesting as paired jets shooting in opposing directions. Observations utilized the telescope's Near-Infrared Camera (NIRCam) alongside the Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI).