description Saturn Nebula (NGC 7009) Overview
The Saturn Nebula (NGC 7009) is a planetary nebula located in the constellation Aquarius, discovered by William Herschel in 1782. Its common name derives from a visual resemblance to the planet Saturn, produced by elongated extensions of ionized gas known as ansae projecting from opposite sides of the nebular shell. The central star is a hot white dwarf responsible for ionizing the surrounding ejected gas. It is among the brighter planetary nebulae observable in amateur telescopes.
help Saturn Nebula (NGC 7009) FAQ
Why is NGC 7009 called the Saturn Nebula?
Its oval central region and elongated ionized-gas extensions, called ansae, can resemble Saturn and its rings in a telescope. It lies in the constellation Aquarius.
Who discovered the Saturn Nebula?
William Herschel discovered NGC 7009 in 1782. The object is a planetary nebula, meaning it was created by a dying star rather than a planet.
How far away is the Saturn Nebula?
The Saturn Nebula is generally estimated to be around 5,000 light-years from Earth. Its catalog designation is NGC 7009.
Can you see the Saturn Nebula with a backyard telescope?
Yes, observers can find it in Aquarius with a small telescope, although higher magnification is useful for seeing its blue-green disk and ansae. It is much more compact in the eyepiece than photographs suggest.
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