The Helix Nebula (NGC7293)

The Helix Nebula (also known as The HelixNGC 7293, or Caldwell 63) is a large planetary nebula (PN) located in the constellation Aquarius. Discovered by Karl Ludwig Harding, probably before 1824, this object is one of the closest to the Earth of all the bright planetary nebulae. The estimated distance is about 215 parsecs or 700 light-years. It is similar in appearance to the Ring Nebula, whose size, age, and physical characteristics are similar to the Dumbbell Nebula, varying only in its relative proximity and the appearance from the equatorial viewing angle. The Helix Nebula has sometimes been referred to as the "Eye of God" in pop culture.

Credit:

ESO

About the Image

Id:helix
Type:Observation
Release date:3 December 2009, 23:20
Size:6850 x 4759 px

About the Object

Name:Helix Nebula, NGC 7293
Type:Milky Way : Nebula : Type : Planetary
Distance:700 light years
Constellation:Aquarius
Category:Nebulae

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Coordinates

Position (RA):22 29 38.53
Position (Dec):-20° 50' 13.31"
Field of view:48.82 x 33.92 arcminutes
Orientation:North is 0.0° left of vertical

Colours & filters

BandTelescope
ESO 3.6-metre telescope