Chandra X-ray observatory detection of extended X-ray emission from the planetary nebula BD+30°3639

We report the detection of well-resolved, extended X-ray emission from the young planetary nebula BD + 30 degrees 3639 using the Advanced CCD Imaging Spectrometer (ACIS) aboard the Chandra X-ray Observatory. The X-ray emission from BD +30 degrees 3639 appears to lie within, but is concentrated to one side of, the interior of the shell of ionized gas seen in high-resolution optical and IR images. The relatively low X-ray temperature (T-x similar to 3 x10(6) K) and asymmetric morphology of the X-ray emission suggest that conduction fronts are present and/or mixing of shock-heated and photoionized gas has occurred, and furthermore hints at the presence of magnetic fields. The ACIS spectrum suggests that the X-ray-emitting region is enriched in the products of nuclear burning. Our detection of extended X-ray emission from BD +30 degrees 3639 demonstrates the power and utility of Chandra imaging as applied to the study of planetary nebulae.