M42

 

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M42, the Great Orion Nebula, is a wonderful sight. Clearly visible to the naked eye below the 3 stars of Orion's belt and known from ancient times. In a telescope the vast extent of the nebulosity becomes apparent. Even in a small 'scope the 4 central trapezium stars are easily seen. It is one of the few astronomical objects that shows some colour by eye, due to the high surface brightness. From Hubble images we now know that this is an area of star formation. In addition, dust disks are visible around many stars, implying the early stages of planet formation. Amateur photographers can obtain impressive images of this nebula showing the beautiful colours not seen by eye. 

 

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