Overview
- New JWST NIRCam imaging of NGC 6537 resolves previously unseen internal structure in the planetary nebula.
- The outstretched lobes are closed, bubble-like cavities about three light-years long, traced by molecular hydrogen emission.
- The central star appears red in the infrared because it is enveloped by hot dust consistent with a compact disc or torus.
- An elongated S-shaped signature in ionized iron marks a fast jet colliding with earlier ejecta, revealing shock fronts.
- The results come from Webb GO programme #4571 led by J. H. Kastner, published with analysis in The Astrophysical Journal, with coordinated Chandra–JWST work to test shaping mechanisms; a hidden companion remains plausible but unconfirmed.