Celestial hemisphere:  Northern  ·  Constellation: Cygnus (Cyg)  ·  Contains:  Crescent Nebula  ·  HD192003  ·  HD192020  ·  HD192163  ·  HD192182  ·  HD192303  ·  HD192361  ·  LBN 203  ·  NGC 6888  ·  Sh2-105
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The Crescent Nebula, jrtb
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The Crescent Nebula

Getting plate-solving status, please wait...
The Crescent Nebula, jrtb
Powered byPixInsight

The Crescent Nebula

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Description

The Crescent Nebula, also known as NGC 6888, is a stunning emission nebula located about 5,000 light-years away in the constellation Cygnus.Stellar Wind Show: The Crescent Nebula was formed by powerful stellar winds from a Wolf-Rayet star (one of the most massive and hottest star types) colliding with the star's previously ejected outer layers. It's like watching a cosmic fireworks show that's been ongoing for thousands of years.

Galactic Transformation: The star responsible for the Crescent Nebula will eventually run out of fuel and explode as a supernova. So, in a sense, what we're seeing is a prelude to an even grander cosmic event in the distant future.

Ageing Star Drama: The Wolf-Rayet star at the heart of the nebula is in a rapid stage of evolution. It's shedding its mass at an incredible rate, creating the stunning shell of gas and dust we see as the Crescent Nebula. It's like a cosmic version of shedding one's past and moving forward.

Over 10 hours of data across 5 nights. 210 3 minute exposures. Some of the clearest nights, best seeing and tracking I've been able to get with my RC6.

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The Crescent Nebula, jrtb