Spectrum of RX J0806.3+1527

The spectrum of RX J0806.3+1527, obtained with the FORS1 multi-mode instrument on VLT ANTU. Many emission lines of ionized helium (He II) and some of doubly ionized carbon (C III) and nitrogen (N III) are seen. They testify to the very high surface temperature of the stars in this system. The image is derived from an 18 000 second spectral exposure with FORS1 on VLT ANTU in January 2001.

Credit:

ESO

About the Image

Id:eso0211b
Type:Observation
Release date:15 March 2002
Related releases:eso0211
Size:1512 x 800 px

About the Object

Name:RX J0806.3+1527
Type:Milky Way : Star : Type : Variable : X-Ray Binary (Star)
Distance:1600 light years
Category:Stars

Image Formats

Large JPEG
161.0 KB
Screensize JPEG
95.2 KB

Colours & filters

BandTelescope
Optical
Niii
Very Large Telescope
FORS1
Optical
Ciii
Very Large Telescope
FORS1
Optical
Heii
Very Large Telescope
FORS1