Nebula IC 2220 in the Carene - A mass - loss star in IC 2220...

Nebula IC 2220 in the Carene - A mass - loss star in IC 2220 - This nebula is illuminated by a giant red star, the star HD 65670. Image obtained by Siding Spring's 3.9m telescope. The bright, supergiant star at the centre of this nebula is known only by its catalog designation, HD 65750. The nebulosity around the star is the result of light reflected by dust surrounding it. The dust is thought to consist mainly of particles of silica condensed from material which the star is losing from its distended surface at a fairly steady rate. The rate of mass loss is much higher than in normal stars and is sufficient to produce the reflection nebula IC 2220. The stellar nature of the central object is revealed by the four diffraction spikes extending from it. These are artifacts due to structures within the telescope. The light from the star has also produced the annular halation ring (a photographic artefact) that ornaments the nebula. These features, real or otherwise, have provoked the name 'Toby Jug' for this nebula, after the ornamental English drinking vessel or beer mug