27022025-NGC 281

🍃 NGC 281 – The Pacman Nebula 🌌✨

 

Meet NGC 281, famously called the Pacman Nebula due to its distinctive shape. This bright emission nebula lies in the constellation Cassiopeia, showcasing glowing clouds of hydrogen gas sculpted by young, hot stars.

 

📍 Constellation: Cassiopeia

✨ Distance from Earth: ~9,200 light-years

📏 Apparent Size: ~30 arcminutes (about the size of the Full Moon)

🔭 Apparent Magnitude: +7.4

📡 Coordinates (J2000):

 

Right Ascension: 00h 52m 59s

Declination: +56° 37′ 19″

💡 Did You Know?

 

NGC 281 is an H II region, rich in ionized hydrogen that emits light when energized by nearby O- and B-type stars.

The dark patches and lanes are dense regions of dust and gas, potential birthplaces for new stars.

The name “Pacman” comes from its resemblance to the classic video game character, with a “bite” taken out of its circular shape.

Part of the IC 1590 star cluster is embedded within, powering the nebula’s glow.

A whimsical reminder of the universe’s creativity—what do you see in this cosmic shape? Share your thoughts below! 🌠

 

Lights: 60x300 (HSO)

Telescope: Takahashi FSQ-106ED

Camera: QHY 600M

Filters: Astrodon

Processed: Pixinsight

Date: 09/01/2025

Done