NGC 6741
NGC 6741 is a planetary nebula located in the constellation Aquila. It is approximately 2,000 light-years away from Earth and is known for its striking appearance, which resembles a butterfly or a ring. The nebula is formed from the outer layers of a dying star that has shed its material, creating a glowing shell of gas and dust.
Discovered by William Herschel in 1788, NGC 6741 is classified as a type of planetary nebula. Its central star is a white dwarf, which emits ultraviolet radiation that ionizes the surrounding gas, causing it to emit light in various colors. This process contributes to the nebula's beautiful and intricate structure.