Eta Carinae: 2D Images to 3D Models of Massive Star Eruption | STScI

Eta Carinae: 2D Images to 3D Models of Massive Star Eruption | STScI

This visualization showcases the multiwavelength emissions and three-dimensional structures surrounding Eta Carinae, one of the most massive and eruptive stars in our galaxy.

Two of NASA’s Great Observatories, the Hubble Space Telescope and the Chandra X-ray Observatory, have observed Eta Carinae using visible, ultraviolet, and x-ray light, as well as in the Hydrogen Alpha emission line. These 2D portraits have been modeled by astronomers and artists to create a 3D visualization that brings the telescope images to life.

The sequence presents the layered model one wavelength region at a time, and builds up the complex nested structure. The viewer gets a full 360-degree view and can assemble a complete mental model that aids interpretation of the NASA observations.

Video Credit: Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI)

Visualization: J. Olmsted, D. Player, L. Hustak, J. DePasquale, G. Bacon, F. Summers (STScI), NASA, European Space Agency (ESA)
Images: J. Morse (BoldlyGo Inst), N. Smith (U Arizona), NASA, ESA, STScI, CXC
Duration: 1 minute, 48 seconds
Release Date: Oct. 15, 2025

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