The VLT Survey Telescope at ESO's Paranal Observatory in Chile has captured a striking image of the Gum 80 nebula, also known as Sh2-46, RCW 158, or LBN 58. Located approximately 6,000 light-years away in the constellation Serpens, the nebula spans 14.5 light-years and exhibits strong red hues due to ionized hydrogen atoms.
At the center of the image is the bright blue-white star HD 165319, an O-type star, which is among the rarest and brightest stars. Astronomers believe this star originated in the nearby Eagle Nebula, a star-forming region. Having separated from its birth cluster, HD 165319 is now traveling through space and appears to be plunging through Gum 80, indicated by a bow shock.
The VLT Survey Telescope (VST), owned by INAF, captured the detailed picture of Gum 80 in visible light. The star's journey may alter the nebula's appearance as it continues its path. This rogue star's journey provides insights into stellar dynamics and nebula evolution.