VST image of the star-forming region Messier 17

The first released VST image shows the spectacular star-forming region Messier 17, also known as the Omega Nebula or the Swan Nebula, as it has never been seen before. This vast region of gas, dust and hot young stars lies in the heart of the Milky Way in the constellation of Sagittarius (The Archer). The VST field of view is so large that the entire nebula, including its fainter outer parts, is captured — and retains its superb sharpness across the entire image. The data were processed using the Astro-WISE software system developed by E.A. Valentijn and collaborators at Groningen and elsewhere.

#L

Credit:

ESO/INAF-VST/OmegaCAM. Acknowledgement: OmegaCen/Astro-WISE/Kapteyn Institute

About the Image

Id:eso1119a
Type:Observation
Release date:8 June 2011, 12:00
Related releases:eso1119
Size:16017 x 16017 px

About the Object

Name:M 17, Messier 17
Type:Milky Way : Nebula : Type : Star Formation
Distance:5500 light years
Constellation:Sagittarius
Category:Nebulae

Mounted Image

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Coordinates

Position (RA):18 20 58.67
Position (Dec):-16° 8' 51.97"
Field of view:53.40 x 53.40 arcminutes
Orientation:North is 0.1° right of vertical