measuring distances to Galactic “planetary nebulae” tagged posts

Based on a culmination of ten years of research work, the new method to estimate more accurate distances between planetary nebulae and the Earth developed by HKU astronomers promises a new era in scientists’ ability to study and understand the fascinating if brief period in the final stages of the lives of low- and mid-mass stars. Credit: The University of Hong Kong

A way of estimating more accurate distances to the thousands of “planetary nebulae” has just been announced by 3 astronomers at Uni of Hong Kong (HKU): Dr David Frew, Professor Quentin Parker and Dr Ivan Bojicic, based on 10 yrs of research work. With this technique, “planetary nebulae” finally get a more meaningful physical presence.

Ghostly and beautiful planetary nebulae” have nothing to do with planets but acquired this nam...