NGC 3132
NGC 3132, also known as the Eight-Burst Nebula, is a planetary nebula located in the constellation Grus. It is approximately 2,500 light-years away from Earth and is notable for its striking appearance, which resembles a butterfly or an eight-pointed star. The nebula is formed from the outer layers of a dying star that has shed its material, creating a colorful shell of gas and dust.
The central star of NGC 3132 is a hot white dwarf, which emits intense ultraviolet radiation that ionizes the surrounding gas, causing it to glow. This nebula is an excellent example of the life cycle of stars, particularly the transition from a red giant to a white dwarf, and provides valuable insights into stellar evolution.