Astronomy Photo: Ring Nebula
My Observation:
Taken: 27 April 2024 at 1:28AM EST
Equipment: Unistellar Equinox2
General Information:
- Messier Designation: M57
- Type: Planetary Nebula
- Distance from Earth: 2000 light years
The Ring Nebula, also known as Messier 57 (M57), is a stellar nebula located approximately 2000 light years away from Earth. It is a striking example of a planetary nebula, formed when a dying star sheds its outer layers of gas, creating a ring-like structure of glowing gas and dust. The central star, a white dwarf, is the remnant of the star that once existed in the center of the nebula. The Ring Nebula is a popular target for amateur astronomers due to its bright and distinctive appearance in the night sky.
Additional Details from NASA:
Hubble Image:
