M17: The Omega Nebula
Explanation:
The Omega Nebula contains glowing
gas, dark
dust, and some
unusually massive stars.
Also known as the
M17 and the
Swan Nebula,
the Omega Nebula is about 5000 light-years away,
20 light-years across, and
visible with binoculars
in the constellation of
Sagittarius. A recent epoch of
star formation
has created some very massive stars that
haven't yet had time to self-destruct.
Until then, these stars
appear very bright and emit light so energetic
it breaks up the surrounding gas and dust.
The streaks across the bright stars are
blemishes caused by the digital camera.
Authors & editors:
Robert Nemiroff
(MTU) &
Jerry Bonnell
(USRA)
NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings,
and Disclaimers
NASA Official: Jay Norris.
Specific
rights apply.
A service of:
LHEA at
NASA /
GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
