The Omega Nebula, also known as M17, is a bright emission nebula located in the constellation Sagittarius. It is approximately 5,000 light-years away from Earth and spans about 15 light-years across. The nebula is named for its shape, which resembles the Greek letter omega (Ω). This nebula is a region of active star formation, containing young, hot stars that emit ultraviolet light, causing the surrounding gas and dust to glow. The Omega Nebula is also part of the larger Milky Way galaxy and is often studied by astronomers to understand stellar evolution and the processes of star formation.