NGC 6720, also known as the Ring Nebula, is a planetary nebula located in the constellation Lyra. It is approximately 2,600 light-years away from Earth and is one of the most studied nebulae due to its bright and distinct ring shape. The nebula is formed from the outer layers of a dying star that has shed its material, creating a glowing shell of gas. The central star of NGC 6720 is a white dwarf, which is the remnant of the original star that created the nebula. The nebula's vibrant colors are a result of ionized gases, primarily hydrogen and oxygen, emitting light as they are energized by the intense radiation from the central star.