NGC 7293 - The Helix Nebula

OP: Mark_H · Posted March 3, 2024 · 10:53 PM

The Helix Nebula, located about 655 light years away from Earth, is the result of an intermediate or low-mass star shedding its outer layers at the end of its life cycle. The gases ejected by the star form a helix shape when viewed from Earth. The remaining core of the star, called the central star (CS) of the planetary nebula, will eventually turn into a white dwarf star. The central star emits such intense radiation that it makes the surrounding gases glow brightly.