Trifid Nebula M20, optical image C017 / 3720

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Trifid Nebula M20, optical image C017 / 3720

Trifid Nebula (M20, NGC 6514), optical image. The Trifid Nebula lies around 9000 light years from Earth in the constellation Sagittarius. Part of this nebula (cloud of gas and dust) glows red due to the ionisation of the hydrogen gas by the hot and bright stars born at its centre. This is called an emission nebula. The M20 emission nebula is partially obscured by a dark nebula (B85) in front of it, causing the three-lobed appearance. The M20 nebula is not all ionised, with parts of it reflecting starlight as a blue colour. Imaged by the Moorook Observatory, Australia

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Astrophysical Astrophysics Australia Cloud Clouds Dust Emission Ionised Gas Milky Way Mosaic Nebula Nebulae Nebulosity Optical Image Sagittarius Star Star Birth Star Birth Region Starbirth Starry Stars Stellar Formation Stellar Nursery Telescope Trifid Nebula

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the mesmerizing beauty of the Trifid Nebula M20, a celestial wonder located approximately 9000 light years away from our planet in the constellation Sagittarius. The image captures the intricate details of this nebula, which is composed of a cloud of gas and dust illuminated by hot and brilliant stars at its core. The red glow emanating from certain areas of the nebula is a result of hydrogen gas being ionized by these stellar powerhouses, creating what is known as an emission nebula. However, what makes this particular image truly unique is the presence of a dark nebula called B85 that partially obscures parts of the M20 emission nebula. This interplay between light and shadow gives rise to its distinctive three-lobed appearance. Additionally, not all sections within the M20 are fully ionized; some reflect starlight with a serene blue hue. Imaged by Australia's Moorook Observatory, this stunning photograph serves as a testament to humanity's unwavering fascination with space exploration and astrophysics. It unveils an ethereal landscape where stars are born and stellar formations take shape amidst vast clouds of dust within our Milky Way galaxy. As we gaze upon this breathtaking scene, we are reminded once again that there is so much more to discover beyond our own world - an infinite universe waiting to be explored.

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