Two stars carve egg-shaped nebula | Space photo of the day Feb. 24, 2026
Space.com
by Daisy Dobrijevic February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Two aging stars in the binary system AFGL 4106 are creating a striking, egg-shaped nebula as they near the end of their lives. This phenomenon has been captured by astronomers using the SPHERE instrument on the Very Large Telescope (VLT), which is designed to handle extreme light contrasts and correct atmospheric blurring. The image reveals two massive stars at the center, appearing as dark dots due to their intense brightness. Surrounding them is a warped cloud of gas and dust, shaped by the gravitational influence of the companion star. This unusual distortion provides clear evidence that binary systems can significantly alter the way stars evolve and die.
Binary star systems are common in our galaxy, with up to 85% of all stars existing in pairs or larger groups. In this case, the stars’ partnership has led to the formation of an irregular nebula, rather than a symmetrical sphere. The distortion is likely caused by the gravitational pull between the two stars, as they orbit a shared center of mass known as a barycenter. This interaction highlights how stellar relationships can shape celestial phenomena in unexpected ways.
The findings, published in *Astronomy & Astrophysics*, offer new insights into the evolution of post-red supergiant binary systems. By studying AFGL 4106, astronomers hope to better understand the complex processes involved in stellar death and the resulting nebula formations. This research is particularly significant for those interested in the final stages of a star’s life and the intricate dynamics of binary systems.
The image captured by SPHERE is a testament to modern astronomical tools, which allow scientists to study even the faintest details of celestial objects. The combination of advanced instruments and innovative techniques has enabled researchers to reveal the subtle warping of the nebula caused by the binary system. This discovery not only advances our knowledge of stellar evolution but also underscores the importance of studying binary systems in order to fully grasp the diversity of cosmic phenomena.
For space enthusiasts, this image serves as a reminder of the fascinating and often unexpected ways that stars shape their surroundings. The egg
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Originally published on Space.com on 2/24/2026