The Hubble Space Telescope first launched in 1990. It’s been busy ever since sending back data and imagery that brings us closer than ever to the far reaches of space.
This colorful image of the Carina Nebula from 2009 shows a massive pillar of gas and dust as stars are birthed. The nebula is located 7,500 light-years away. This particular image was taken in visible light. The pillar is shaped by radiation and streaming winds of charged particles.
First published Jan. 6, 2015, at 10:46 a.m. PT.
Update, Oct. 6, 2017, at 12:51 p.m. PT: Added 12 images to the end of the gallery.
