ALMA radio telescope captures groundbreaking high-resolution image
The Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) has captured its highest-resolution image ever, featuring an evolved star called R Leporis. Using a new calibration technique called the band-to-band method, ALMA observed submillimeter-wave emissions from the stellar surface and a bright ring-like structure of gas escaping from the star. This unprecedented view was achieved by pushing ALMA's capabilities to their limit, allowing astronomers to probe phenomena with precision previously beyond reach. The image was taken using ALMA's highest frequency Band 10 receiver and an array configuration spanning 10 miles, with an angular resolution equivalent to spotting a 33-foot-long bus on the moon from Earth.