Charles LilloComment

NGC 1788

Charles LilloComment
NGC 1788

In the Orion constellation’s outskirts, NGC 1788 is a reflection nebula sculpted by powerful stellar winds and radiation. Though relatively isolated from Orion’s bright star-forming regions, this cosmic phantom glows as young, massive stars hidden within its dusty embrace energize the surrounding gas and dust. The nebula’s delicate filaments and shadowy edges give it a bat-like appearance, earning it the nickname The Cosmic Bat.

Captured with a combination of luminance and HA and O3 data, this exposure reveals intricate details of NGC 1788’s dusty structure and the surrounding interstellar medium. Dark nebulae weave through the region, obscuring background starlight while hinting at ongoing star formation within. This hidden stellar nursery offers a rare glimpse into the quieter, yet still dynamic, processes of cosmic evolution.

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NebulaCharles LilloSharpless 132 (Sh2-132), The Lion NebulaComment

The Lion Nebula

The Lion Nebula, also known as Sharpless 132 (Sh2-132), is a bright emission nebula located in the constellation Cepheus. It's a region of active star formation, characterized by the presence of young, hot stars that emit intense ultraviolet radiation. This radiation ionizes the surrounding hydrogen gas, causing it to glow in the characteristic red color of hydrogen-alpha emission.

NebulaCharles LilloSharpless 132 (Sh2-132), The Lion NebulaComment
The Lion Nebula
GalaxyCharles LilloM33Comment

A Deep Dive into the Triangulum Galaxy (M33)

I captured 10.5 hours of data with 5-minute subs. Using an Apertura Carbon Star Fast Newtonian and my ZWO 2600 Duo OSC camera, I focused on pulling out the rich detail hidden within this iconic spiral galaxy.

GalaxyCharles LilloM33Comment
A Deep Dive into the Triangulum Galaxy (M33)