The Hubble space telescope captured an image of the enigmatic dwarf galaxy Holmberg II, which possesses an irregular shape dotted with vast luminous bubbles. Alexander Kiselev, an astronomer, science popularizer, and space enthusiast, shared insights with aif.ru regarding the nature of these surface “soap bubbles.”
“The most plausible theory for the origin of these glowing pink cavities points towards intense star formation activities and their subsequent effects. Holmberg II, typical of many dwarf galaxies, exhibits vigorous new star creation. These colossal voids were most likely sculpted by the actions of massive stars. Such stars possess immense mass and emit prodigious amounts of energy. Furthermore, when these gargantuan stars reach the end of their lifecycles, they detonate as supernovae, a process that further aids in expanding and creating these enormous empty spaces,” the specialist elaborated.
Kiselev further noted that the pink hue emanating from these cavities is due to hydrogen ionization.
“These ‘soap bubbles’ are, in essence, enormous spheres of ionized hydrogen, generated by the intense radiation, stellar winds, and supernova blasts originating from the young, massive stars currently flourishing within this galaxy,” the astronomer clarified.
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