Stunning galaxies revealed in once-in-a-generation moment

A new cosmic era begins as Rubin Observatory maps millions of galaxies

- BY STEPHEN N R, Senior Associate Editor

A powerful new observatory has opened its eyes to the universe, revealing its first awe-inspiring images that promise to reshape our cosmic understanding.

Perched atop Cerro Pachón in Chile, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory — home to the largest digital camera ever built — has begun capturing the southern sky with breathtaking clarity.

In images released yesterday, vast nebulae and galaxy clusters shine in unprecedented detail. A composite of 678 exposures, taken over just seven hours, shows the Trifid and Lagoon Nebulae, star-forming regions located thousands of light-years away, glowing in vivid pinks and reds.