Non-radial oscillations in the giant star xi Hya

A computer-generated illustration of one possible non-radial oscillation mode in the giant star xi Hya. The blue parts contain particles in the upper stellar atmosphere moving away from the stellar centre, hence they cause a "blue-shift" (towards shorter wavelengths) in the spectrum for the observer. At the same time, particles in the red parts move towards the stellar centre and cause a "red-shift" (towards longer wavelengths). Particles in the white regions do not move during the oscillation cycle. Half an oscillation cycle later, the red parts will have become blue and vice versa.

Credit:
ESO

About the Image

Id:eso0215b
Type:Simulation
Release date:15 May 2002
Related releases:eso0215
Size:785 x 778 px

About the Object

Name:xi Hya
Type:Milky Way : Star : Evolutionary Stage : Red Giant
Distance:130 light years
Category:Stars

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