Chandra Release - August 4, 2004

Visual Description: GRB 031203

 An astronomical image featuring a Gamma-ray burst (GRB) dominates the scene. The GRB is depicted as a large, circular structure in the center of the image.  The main structure of the Gamma-ray burst appears to be composed of various shades of blue and green, creating an eye-catching contrast against the black background.  The shape of the Gamma-ray burst resembles a planetary nebula, which is a type of celestial object formed by the ejection of gas and dust from a star. However, unlike planetary nebulae, Gamma-ray bursts are much brighter and shorter-lived, emitting intense bursts of high-energy radiation across the electromagnetic spectrum.