Nebulae, as seen from the inside

  • Thread starter Barnak
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In summary, the conversation discusses the appearance of nebulae and how the colors are usually exaggerated in pictures. The conversation then poses the question of what a human observer in the middle of a nebula would see and whether the colors would appear stronger compared to over-exposed pictures. The response is that surface brightness is independent of distance and that stars would appear as specks of light. It is suggested that a simulation would be needed to determine how much more detail and color would be seen if perceived from within the nebula.
  • #1
Barnak
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All the nice pictures of nebulae that we usually see everywhere are of false "exagerated" colors, or true colors from a long exposition. A nebula seen with the naked eye through a good telescope is usually a gray blob with maybe some weak/dark colour tint.

But what would see an hypothetical human observer, if he/she was standing right in the middle of the nebula ? Would the light seen with the naked eye be of stronger intensity/color ? To what point, compared to the usual over-exposed pictures ?

I guess nobody actually knows the answer to this question (obviously !), but I'm still wondering what is the "expert" opinion on this.
 
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  • #2
Actually it is very simple and well known. Surface brightness is independent of distance.
 
  • #3
The stars appear as specks of light and we see somewhat their surface brightness, comparing Sirius to Betelgeuse for example. If they were closer and more densely packed, as they would be if perceived from within the nebula or a globular cluster, we could see more detail and possibly more color from ionized gases.
How much more would be an interesting challenge for a simulation.
 

FAQ: Nebulae, as seen from the inside

What causes the colorful appearance of nebulae?

Nebulae are clouds of gas and dust in space, and their colors are caused by the different types of gases and materials present. These gases can emit light of different wavelengths, creating the vibrant colors we see.

Can we see nebulae with the naked eye?

Yes, some nebulae are visible to the human eye as faint, blurry patches in the night sky. However, most nebulae are best viewed with a telescope or other advanced equipment.

How do we know what nebulae look like from the inside?

Scientists use a variety of tools and techniques, such as telescopes and spectroscopy, to study nebulae and gather information about their composition, structure, and appearance from the inside.

Are all nebulae the same?

No, nebulae can vary greatly in size, shape, and composition. Some are formed from the remains of dying stars, while others are nurseries for new stars to form. Each nebula has its own unique characteristics and features.

Are there any dangers associated with being inside a nebula?

While nebulae are vast and mostly empty, they can contain high levels of radiation and gas particles, which can be harmful to humans and spacecraft. However, the chances of encountering a dangerous nebula are very low, as they are typically found in remote areas of space.

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