NASA compares Hubble and Webb views of the Cat’s Head Nebula
NASA’s October 29 image release shows how visible and infrared light reveal different details of a star-forming region in the Carina Nebula.
What the record says
NASA’s Hubble and Webb mission teams published complementary views of the Cat’s Head Nebula on October 29, 2026. The nickname describes a small dusty region within the Carina Nebula, about 7,500 light-years from Earth.
Hubble’s visible-light image shows an opaque dust pillar with a bright gas rim. Webb’s near-infrared view reveals finer structure and many stars, some still obscured by dust. Its mid-infrared view traces warm dust and carbon-based molecules excited by starlight, according to NASA.
NASA says the different wavelengths help astronomers study star formation. Some bright features may be young stars embedded in dust. The agency cautions that an apparent crossing of a filament and one bright source does not, by itself, establish a physical relationship.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Compare NASA’s official Hubble and Webb images and its explanation of the different wavelengths.
Limits and what is not established
This is an October 29 image release, not a claim that the nebula or a new star was just discovered. Possible young stars and physical relationships remain interpretations.
Sources checked October 30, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.
Original sources
NASA Hubble and Webb mission teams: original information