Messier 8, also known as the Lagoon Nebula, is a large emission nebula located in the constellation Sagittarius. It is approximately 5,000 light-years away from Earth and spans about 110 light-years across. The nebula is notable for its bright, colorful gas and dust, which are illuminated by nearby young stars. The Lagoon Nebula is a region of active star formation, making it a popular target for astronomers and astrophotographers. It contains several clusters of young stars, including the open cluster NGC 6530. The nebula's distinct shape and vibrant colors make it a stunning object in the night sky.