NGC 7293 – The Helix Nebula
By Eiji Kato
The Helix Nebula lies roughly 450 light years away, making it one of the closest planetary nebulae (distance estimates range from 85 to 590 light years). With a diameter of 16′ for the main portion of the nebula and an outer halo diameter of 28′ its apparent size is among the largest known planetary nebulae. Although the nebula is intrinsically bright, its large size makes it a difficult target for visual observation under less than ideal sky conditions. It was discovered by Karl Ludwig Harding before 1824.
More of Eiji’s deep sky and comet sketches can be found in his gallery.
Eiji,
Very nice and subtle detail on this sketch of the Helix!
~WadeVC