The Eye of God
The Eye of God, also known as NGC 7293, is a planetary nebula located in the constellation Aquarius. It is approximately 700 light-years away from Earth and is notable for its striking appearance, resembling a giant eye. The nebula was formed when a dying star expelled its outer layers, creating a colorful shell of gas and dust.
The Eye of God is composed of various elements, including hydrogen, helium, and heavier elements like carbon and nitrogen. Its central star, a white dwarf, is the remnant of the original star and emits intense ultraviolet radiation, causing the surrounding gas to glow. This phenomenon makes the Eye of God a popular subject for both amateur and professional astronomers.