images

Dumbell planetary nebula (M27) in Vulpecula

by

E.Mouquet/Novapix

Reference

a-nep68-53013

Date

2007-01-15

The Dumbbell Nebula (M27, NGC6853), is a planetary nebula located about 1200 light years from the earth in the constellation of Vulpecula. The nebula was formed when an evolved, red giant star ejected its outer envelope near the end of its lifetime. The expanding cloud of gas becomes visible once the hot core of the star, visible near the center, is exposed and the high-energy, ultraviolet light from the core ionizes the cloud.