Explanation:
The central region of our Milky Way Galaxy is a mysterious and complex
place.
Pictured here in
radio
and infrared light, the galaxy's central square degree
is highlighted in fine detail.
The region is known as the
Central Molecular Zone.
While much of the extended emission is due to dense gas laced
with molecules, also seen are
emission nebulas
lit up by massive young stars, glowing
supernova remnants, and the
curving Galactic Center Radio Arc
in purple.
The identity and root cause for many other features remains unknown.
Besides a massive
black hole
named Sgr A*,
the Galactic Center houses the galaxy's most active star forming region.
This image is not just
interesting
scientifically.
It's esthetic
beauty won first prize this year in the
AUI/NRAO Image Contest.
digg_url = 'http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap081110.html'; digg_skin = 'compact';
