Infrared/visible light comparison view of the Helix Nebula

This comparison shows a new view of the Helix Nebula acquired with the VISTA telescope in infrared light along with a more familiar view in visible light from the MPG/ESO 2.2-metre telescope (right). The infrared vision of VISTA reveals strands of cold nebular gas that are mucbh less prominent in visible light images of the Helix.

Crediti

ESO/VISTA/J. Emerson. Acknowledgment: Cambridge Astronomical Survey Unit